Risk Factors for Fibromyalgia

A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can get fibromyalgia with or without the ones listed below. The chances of getting it are greater in people who have many risk factors.

Fibromyalgia is more common in women, mainly those over 40 years of age. It is also more common in people who have first degree family members who have it. Other things that may raise the risk are:

Infection

People with certain infections have a higher risk. Examples are Lyme disease and hepatitis C.

Injury

People who have had a physical trauma or injury are at higher risk.

Stress

Stress can raise the risk of this health problem. Examples are stress from illness, trauma, and life events.

Other Chronic Pain Problems

Other health problems that cause pain have been linked to fibromyalgia. Some of these are:

• Painful periods, painful bladder syndrome, and endometriosis in women
• Prostatitis in men
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Temporomandibular disorder
• Mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder