Initial fibromyalgia triggers include injury, infection, and significant emotional distress. Possible triggers for a flare-up include hormonal changes, stress, and weather changes.
While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unclear, researchers believe that certain events can cause a person to develop the condition.
Fibromyalgia symptoms may come and go. A person may find that various factors can trigger their symptoms or cause them to worsen.
Read on to learn more about fibromyalgia triggers and how to manage them.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is currently unclear. However, experts have identified various triggers that may cause the condition to develop. These include:
- an infection, such as Lyme disease or Epstein-Barr virus
- a serious injury, such as from a vehicle accident
- undergoing a major operation
- severe emotional trauma
Although more research is necessary, genetics may also play a role in whether somebody is likely to develop fibromyalgia. However, a person
Learn more about viruses that can trigger fibromyalgia.
Once a person develops fibromyalgia, they may find that their symptoms come and go.
Certain factors may trigger a flare-up, which is when symptoms begin again after a period without symptoms or with reduced severity.
Possible triggers for a fibromyalgia flare-up or worsening of symptoms
- stress
- anxiety
- depression, with around 30% of people experiencing major depression at the time of diagnosis
- hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or the menstrual cycle
- weather changes or humid days
- not getting enough quality sleep
Learn about recognizing a fibromyalgia flare-up.
There are certain conditions that make developing fibromyalgia more likely. These
However, a person can develop fibromyalgia even if they do not have any of these conditions. It is best to contact a doctor for advice if they have concerns about fibromyalgia or related conditions.
While it may not be possible to manage the initial triggers that can cause fibromyalgia to develop, a person can take steps to help reduce the frequency or severity of flare-ups.
A person may be able to manage fibromyalgia triggers by:
- getting enough quality sleep
- managing depression or anxiety
- getting enough regular physical activity or exercise, particularly cardiovascular fitness training
Learn about the best exercises for fibromyalgia.
A doctor may also refer a person for occupational therapy. An occupational therapist can help them find modifications they can make in their daily activities to help reduce triggers or manage symptoms.
Certain medications may help with pain management. These include:
- pregabalin
- duloxetine
- milnacipran
A person’s doctor can help them find more ways to manage triggers or fibromyalgia pain.
Learn more about fibromyalgia treatments.
How do you calm down a fibromyalgia flare-up?
Practicing stress-reduction strategies may help calm down a fibromyalgia flare-up. Getting enough quality sleep can also help.
Can fibromyalgia be caused by stress?
Experiencing a stressful or traumatic event may cause fibromyalgia to develop. Stress
Injury, infection, or severe emotional trauma can cause fibromyalgia to develop.
Once it develops, certain factors can trigger a flare-up or cause symptoms to worsen. Possible triggers include stress, depression, anxiety, hormonal changes, changes in the weather, and not getting enough quality sleep.
Genetics may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia, though it does not always run in families. Having certain conditions may increase the likelihood of developing fibromyalgia. These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, IBS, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Taking steps to manage stress and improving the quality of sleep can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. A doctor may also recommend occupational therapy and medications.