Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Disease?
As any Fibro Doctor will tell you: “Fibromyalgia (FM) is a multifactorial syndrome which includes not only widespread pain and stiffness, now recognised as major symptoms, but also numerous other somatic [bodily], emotional, and neuro-psychic expressions. The lack of specific biomarkers [signs of a normal or abnormal process, or of a condition or disease), has made FM a condition of unexplained medical significance, and its pathophysiology remains controversial. The current hypothesis is that its development is influenced by various mechanism, including genetic predisposition, stressful life events, inflammatory processes, and cognitive-emotional factors” [1]
Did You Know?
Fibromyalgia is recognised as a disorder which can generate long-term pain all over the body. Many Pain Specialists believe that this condition is responsible for the brain sensing greater levels of pain. Moreover, fibromyalgia sufferers can experience:
• Anxiety
• Fatigue, and
• Nerve dysfunction and pain [2]
Whilst it has to be said that at the present time, there is no specific cure for fibromyalgia, the good news is that Fibro Doctors have the necessary extensive medical training and clinical expertise to give patients an accurate diagnosis, and provide them with a multi-faceted Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan. The latter is designed to reduce or negate symptoms through both conventional and the latest cutting-edge treatments, injectables, and therapies.
The Link Between Fibromyalgia & Autoimmune Disease
“Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar or associated with other conditions, including some autoimmune disorders. In many cases, fibromyalgia can occur simultaneously with autoimmune disorders” [2]
Many Fibro Consultants believe that as a large number of fibromyalgia symptoms overlap with those present in autoimmune disorders, fibromyalgia should also be classed as an autoimmune disease. However, because there is insufficient evidence indicating that fibromyalgia causes harm to the surrounding tissues, brings on inflammation, or generates autoantibodies; as things stand, this claim cannot be substantiated [2].
So What Exactly is an Autoimmune Disease?
An autoimmune disorder can be described as a condition in which: the immune system mistakenly identifies healthy cells as harmful or dangerous viruses or bacteria, and as a consequence, the body starts to attack itself. When this scenario occurs, the body responds by generating auto-antibodies which kill healthy cells. The fall-out of this results in damaged tissues, and frequent inflammation (in the areas which have been impacted by this process).
Common Conditions Linked to Fibromyalgia Pain
These comprise:
• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Myofascial pain syndrome
• Restless leg syndrome
• Hypothyroidism
• TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorders)
• Lyme disease
• Depression [2]
Putting a Spotlight on Fibromyalgia Research
Research indicates that various autoimmune disorders and fibromyalgia display similar characteristics and symptoms. In fact, Fibro Doctors often see patients who simultaneously suffer from an autoimmune disorder and fibromyalgia pain. Of note: a study which was conducted in 2007, showed that fibromyalgia patients have high levels of thyroid antibodies. Yet, whilst it can be said that this situation is quite common, some patients do not exhibit any symptoms.
Furthermore, a study that was carried out in 2013: “linked pain caused by fibromyalgia to small nerve fibre neuropathy” [1]. – Yet to date, this link is not broadly accepted. Furthermore, a 2021 study using animals, highlighted a potential autoimmune origin. However, more research is needed in order to establish this connection beyond a reasonable doubt.
So What is the Outlook For Fibromyalgia Sufferers?
Fibromyalgia Doctors regard fibromyalgia as a real condition. Day in and day out, they witness new patients’ immense pain suffering which invades every aspect of their lives. Fortunately, there are are here to help…
References
[1]. Clauw D, Sarzi-Puttini P, Pellegrino G, Shoenfeld Y. Is fibromyalgia an autoimmune disorder? Autoimmun Rev. 2024 Jan;23(1):103424.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37634681/
[2]. Antony K. (2021). “Fibromyalgia: Is It an Autoimmune Disease?” Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/health/is-fibromyalgia-an-autoimmune-disease
