What causes fibromyalgia to flare up?

Answered by Tom Adger

There are several factors that can trigger a fibromyalgia flare-up, and these triggers can vary from person to person. For me personally, I have found that emotional stress plays a significant role in exacerbating my symptoms.

One common source of emotional stress is work. The demands and pressures of my job can sometimes become overwhelming, leading to increased stress levels and ultimately triggering a flare-up. This can be especially true if I am working long hours or dealing with a particularly difficult project or deadline.

Financial stress is another trigger for me. Worries about money, bills, and financial stability can cause a great deal of anxiety and stress, which in turn can lead to a flare-up. The constant strain of trying to make ends meet and manage my finances can take a toll on both my physical and mental well-being.

Social stress can also be a trigger for fibromyalgia flare-ups. Interactions with others, whether it be conflicts with friends or family, feeling isolated or misunderstood, or even just socializing in general, can sometimes be overwhelming for me. These situations can cause a lot of emotional stress and can contribute to flare-ups.

In addition to these stress-related triggers, there are other factors that can also contribute to fibromyalgia flare-ups. Changes in weather, particularly cold and damp conditions, can often worsen my symptoms. Physical overexertion or excessive exercise can also be a trigger for me. Even something as simple as a lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can cause a flare-up.

It’s important to note that these triggers may not be the same for everyone with fibromyalgia. Each person’s experience with the condition is unique, and what may trigger symptoms for one person may not have the same effect on another. It’s important to pay attention to your own body and identify your personal triggers in order to better manage your condition.

Emotional stress, whether it be caused by work, finances, or social situations, can trigger fibromyalgia flare-ups for many individuals. Additionally, changes in weather, physical overexertion, and poor sleep can also contribute to flare-ups. Understanding and managing these triggers can be crucial in effectively managing fibromyalgia symptoms.