Guide To The Causes, Risk Factors, Complications, And Triggers For Fibromyalgia

Genetics

Genetics can cause some individuals to be at an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia. The exact mechanisms are not entirely clear. However, variations in numerous genes with small defects are known to increase an individual's risk of developing this condition. The affected genes are known to have roles in how the individual's brain perceives pain. Neurotransmitters are chemicals responsible for sending signals from one nerve cell to the next. Genes involved in the processes of neurotransmitter production and breakdown may contribute.

Studies have shown individuals with first-degree relatives like parents or siblings affected by fibromyalgia have a risk for the disease that is eight times higher than the general population. First-degree relatives of individuals with this condition are often affected by irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and other problems involving chronic pain. Due to sharing the same genetically related risk factors, these types of disorders may aggregate in families. Genes identified to have relevance in pain perception include those that control voltage-gated sodium channels, mu-opioid receptors, dopaminergic pathways, and GABAergic pathways.

Keep reading to learn more about what can result in this chronic disorder now.