Fibromyalgia is a rheumatic condition that causes widespread aching, stiffness and burning pain that spreads to other local areas of the body. The symptoms, though severe, are often so generalized that it can take up to 5 years [1] for a doctor to properly diagnosis the condition. (Updated Sept 9, 2023)
On your next visit, share this list of 10 causes of fibromyalgia with your doctor. It just may help expedite the treatment process. After all, the sooner you’re diagnosed, the sooner you can get the proper treatment you need to alleviate your pain.
1. PTSD
According to research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the development of fibromyalgia has been linked to incidents of post-traumatic stress disorder [2]. If you have suffered from PTSD, or are currently experiencing symptoms, talk to your doctor right away.
2. Autoimmune Diseases
Fibromyalgia is in the family of rheumatoid conditions, but it is not an autoimmune disease, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [3]. However, people with rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease, can be more susceptible to developing fibromyalgia.