Psychological & Social Effects

According to studies, people with FMS are more likely than others to have experienced severe emotional and physical abuse.  This suggests that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or chronic stress could play a role in the development of FMS in some people.  Evidence shows that PTSD actually leads to changes in the brain, possibly from long-term over-exposure to stress hormones.

Muscle abnormalities

Though these things cannot be tested at your doctor’s office or clinic, some research has shown that people with FMS have three kinds of muscle abnormalities:

* Biochemical

Some FMS patents have low levels of muscle-cell chemicals that make sure you have enough calcium in your muscles.  When levels are low, the muscles stay contracted rather than relaxing.

* Structural & blood flow

Researchers have found people with FMS have especially thick capillaries (tiny blood vessels).  This could mean your muscles don’t get enough oxygen-rich blood or other compounds you need for proper muscle function.

* Functional

Experts don’t know why this is but speculate that the pain and stress of the disease itself may harm muscle function.

Source:  1995-2007 Life Extension Foundation.  All rights reserved.  “Fibromyalgia“