- With Mayo Clinic Pain Rehabilitation Center nurse
Connie Luedtke, R.N.
Causes (1)
- Is fibromyalgia hereditary?
Complications (1)
- Fibromyalgia: Can it cause elevated ESR and CRP levels?
Treatments and drugs (3)
- Fibromyalgia treatment: Does gabapentin relieve symptoms?
- TENS therapy: An option for fibromyalgia treatment?
- Milnacipran (Savella) for fibromyalgia: What makes it different?
Alternative medicine (1)
- Cupping therapy: Can it relieve fibromyalgia pain?
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Question
Is fibromyalgia hereditary?
Is fibromyalgia hereditary?
Answer
from Connie Luedtke, R.N.
If one of your parents or siblings has fibromyalgia, your risk of also developing the disorder increases dramatically. Many scientists believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors work together to cause fibromyalgia — a poorly understood disorder characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue and multiple tender points.
Researchers are studying several genes that may make people more susceptible to developing fibromyalgia. Some of these genes have also been linked to an increased risk for depression or anxiety. Some researchers have speculated that this might be why some antidepressants help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms.
Next questionFibromyalgia: Can it cause elevated ESR and CRP levels?
- Questions and answers about fibromyalgia. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Fibromyalgia/default.asp. Accessed Dec. 12, 2008.
- Goldenberg DL. Pathogenesis of fibromyalgia. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 12, 2008.
