Why Women Are More Affected by Fibromyalgia

Exploring the Reasons

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread pain and is often misunderstood.

It’s often grouped with other similar disorders like arthritis and lupus, but doctors still don’t know exactly what causes fibromyalgia.

This condition mainly affects women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, women are twice as likely to get fibromyalgia compared to men.

Although anyone can develop fibromyalgia, hormones might play a role in why more women get it. Please find out more about how this painful condition affects women and what can be done to manage it.

Prevalence of Fibromyalgia

The CDC estimates that around 4 million adults in the United States have fibromyalgia. While it can happen to anyone at any age, it usually starts in middle-aged adults.

Risk Factors for Fibromyalgia

Since fibromyalgia mainly affects women, being female is a risk factor.

Other things that might increase your chances of getting fibromyalgia include:

• A personal or family history of fibromyalgia or other rheumatoid diseases
• Repeated injuries to the same part of the body
• Anxiety or long-term stress
• Neurological disorders
• Experiencing a major physical event, like a car accident
• A history of serious infections

Having a history of any of these factors doesn’t mean you will get fibromyalgia. However, it’s essential to be aware of these risks and talk to your doctor if you’re concerned.

Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia symptoms are common in both men and women, but the pain isn’t always in the same places and can change from day to day.

People with fibromyalgia often feel intense muscle pain and are usually very tired. Common symptoms include:

• Headaches or migraines
• Back pain
• Pain and numbness in arms and legs