What causes lower ATP levels in FMS patients ?

It has been theorized that diminished kidney function in fibromyalgia patients disrupts the Krebs cycle, or the cycle by which the body rids itself of waste materials. Fibromyalgia patients may not be able to efficiently rid their bodies of excess phosphate, which causes the mitochondria to produce less ATP (cellular energy), and leaves those with FMS chronically fatigued. It is worth noting that the greatest concentration of mitochondria is in the brain and muscle cells, which seems to support this theory—muscle pain and cognitive disorders are two of the most common and debilitating conditions associated with fibromyalgia.

In addition, excess phosphate in the system causes the body to import more calcium into the cell, which is not a good thing, since calcium signals the cell to work harder, and further exhausts the cells to the point where tissues are being commanded to perform around the clock. This unending demand on muscle tissue can cause palpable lumps to form in muscles, tendons, and ligaments, as they are in a in a state of constant contraction.

Return to: Fibromyalgia and Causes or view one of the following: Is fibromyalgia recognized by the medical community ? What kind of painful sensations are associated with Fibromyalgia ? How is guaifenesin used to treat fibromyalgia ? How do substance P levels affect pain symptoms in fibromyalgia patients ? How do antidepressants help treat fibromyalgia symptoms ? What kinds of events may cause the onset of fibromyalgia ? Is impotence linked to fibromyalgia ? What is the Family and Medical Leave Act ? Where does the term fibromyalgia mean ? What is the link between fibromyalgia and abnormal sleep patterns ? How is the myofascia affected by fibromyalgia ?