Who Gets Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia currently affects over six million people in the United States and millions more worldwide. It causes chronic pain and debilitating fatigue, along with a host of other symptoms. Anyone can get fibromyalgia, including men and women, children and the elderly. However, certain people are at greater risk of developing fibromyalgia then others. Find out if you are at risk of developing fibromyalgia syndrome.

Are You At Risk?
Many factors seem to be associated with fibromyaliga symptoms. Since no cause of fibromyalgia has yet been determined, a number of these factors could be directly associated with causing the condition.

Gender
Gender seems to play a large role in determining who develops fibromyalgia syndrome. Though both men and women develop the disease, women seem to become affected far more often then men do. In fact, between 80% and 90% of those affected by the syndrome are female. It is unknown why the illness seems to affect so many women.

Age
Age also plays a significant role in determining who will develop fibromyalgia. Most women who develop fibromyalgia do so during their childbearing years. Diagnosis typically takes place between the ages of 20 and 55. However, elderly men and women can also develop the disease. Children rarely develop fibromyalgia.

Genetics
Genes may contribute to the development of fibromyalgia. Research indicates that women who have a close family member with the syndrome are more likely to develop fibromyalgia themselves. This may be due to a genetic defect passed along at birth.

Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders have been theorized to be one of the root causes of fibromyalgia. Many fibromyalgia sufferers have sleep disorders and, as a result, become very fatigued. If you have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea, you may be at increased risk for developing fibromyalgia.

Lupus
If you have been diagnosed with lupus, you are at increased risk of developing fibromyalgia syndrome. Like fibromyalgia, lupus affects mostly women and causes symptoms of pain and fatigue. Up to 30% of lupus sufferers are eventually diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis which causes degeneration of the joints. It is associated with pain and disability. For unknown reasons, people suffering from osteoarthritis are more likely to develop fibromyalgia. Between 10% and 15% of osteoarthritis sufferers also have fibromyalgia.

Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis which causes severe back pain. It causes inflammation of the joints between the spine and pelvis. People with ankylosing spondylitis are more likely to suffer from fibromyalgia.