What causes fibromyalgia?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is yet unknown, but research has lead to the development of several theories concerning the causes of this condition. To date, a wide variety of factors have been associated with fibromyalgia, including family history, severe physical and emotional trauma, infectious disorders, abnormal sleep patterns, structural muscle changes, abnormal levels of neurotransmitters, diminished renal (kidney) function, diminished levels of cellular energy (ATP), immune disorders and allergies.

Some researchers believe that fibromyalgia patients are more sensitive to pain due to higher levels of substance P in the spinal chord, which ultimately causes a malfunctioning of the entire central nervous system (CNS). Other possible causes of FMS include stress placed on bodily functions by viral or bacterial infection, depression, and the onset of menopause.

Return to: Fibromyalgia Definitions or view one of the following: Who gets fibromyalgia syndrome (fms) ? Are frequent headaches associated with Fibromyalgia ? Why might fibromyalgia patients feel worse before feeling better with guaifenesin ? What factors may aggravate or worsen fibromyalgia symptoms or cause a flare-up ? How is guaifenesin used to treat fibromyalgia ? Can emotional trauma or physical or sexual abuse cause fibromyalgia ? Are fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome the same disease ? Will HMOs pay for medical treatment for fibromyalgia ? What is the autonomic (sympathetic) nervous system ? What fibromyalgia symptoms may develop as a result of irregular sleep patterns ? In post-traumatic fibromyalgia, how long after an injury does it take for symptoms to develop ?