Fibromyalgia is a health condition that is most known for the debilitating pain that it causes throughout various points in the body. The symptoms of fibromyalgia also include extreme fatigue, sleep disruptions and emotional distress. While a single known cause of the condition has yet to be found, researchers have uncovered some common risk factors among those who struggle with fibromyalgia. Knowing the common risk factors for developing this condition helps you watch out for symptoms and take preventative action where you can:
1. Repetitive injuries
Many of the strongest fibromyalgia symptoms occur within the joints. This has led to some researchers considering that experiencing repetitive strain on these parts of the body could contribute to the development of the condition. Since fibromyalgia is associated with inflammation, it is possible that strain on certain parts of the body could increase the risk of broader pain.
2. Stressful or traumatic events
Certain life experiences can serve as triggers for the condition to flare up. Being under prolonged stress or experiencing a traumatic event often seems to be a common factor among people who receive a new diagnosis. Although it isn’t believed that PTSD is the primary cause of the disorder, it might be a factor that sets the symptoms into motion.
3. Gender
Women have higher rates of fibromyalgia cases compared to men. This could be related to the hormone estrogen, which can increase sensitivity to pain. New cases of fibromyalgia also tend to occur shortly after menopause begins, which further raises the question of how much of a role hormones play in the development of this condition. Women who experience new types of pain in their body or lingering fatigue might want to explore the possibility of having fibromyalgia.
4. Family history
Similar to other health conditions, genetics might play a role in whether or not you develop fibromyalgia. Cases of the condition seem to follow family lines, and it is not uncommon for a mother and daughter to struggle with similar symptoms. Keep in mind, however, that some of the heightened risk could be linked to people being more educated about the condition. Someone whose parent has fibromyalgia is more likely to visit the doctor to discuss their symptoms.
5. Obesity
Being overweight already places people at risk for experiencing more pain due to the strain that carrying the extra weight around places on the body. Unfortunately, this excess strain can also contribute to feelings of fatigue, aching joints and difficulty sleeping. People who are overweight and eat a diet that contains excessive amounts of sugar, processed foods or salt may also experience more inflammation in their body that raises the risk of developing symptoms.
