Can fibromyalgia be genetic at all?

[Jessie]

Hello! I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia about two years ago. I have been trying to cope with it ever since. I'm sure you all know what that's like.

My question is this. Do any of you have a family history of this? Because, my mom and a cousin also have it. I have read many places that it is not hereditary. I'm just not sure that's true. It's an awfully big coincidence!

The first six months or so were the worst because the pain never went away. Now it comes and goes. I've noticed a definite connection to the weather changing, stress (of course), and my activity level.

I am luckily still able to work most of the time. My boss is very good about scheduling. If I need to be off for a Dr. apt. or just because I'm too sore to move, he works around it.

I always try to remember the good things in my life and the things that I am able to do instead of dwelling on the things I'm missing out on or can't do. I take Paxil(an anti-depression drug), but not for depression--although I do think it helps with that. I was told that it would help a bit with the pain by regulating hormone levels. I also take Vicodin when it's really bad. It seems to take the edge off the pain, although I have yet to find anything to make the pain go away. I also take a sleeping pill at night, which I do think helps a little.

Anyway, please let me know if it seems to run in families at all, or if I just have a very unlucky family!

[ghchealth]

There has been some speculation that there could be a hereditary component for fibromyalgia, although, as you stated, this is not currently agreed upon or accepted by most experts. As for coincidence, it is quite possible for many people in the same family to have like conditions for a number of different reasons other than genetics. It could be that you have been exposed to similar toxins, consumed a similar diet, lived in the same environment, or been infected by the same bacteria, virus, or fungus. For instance, there is some evidence to suggest that the spirochete which causes Lyme’s disease may also be the underlying cause for some people that suffer from fibromyalgia. If this is the case, it would make sense that family member have also been exposed to this bacteria simply due to the fact that they have been in the same environment. I would encourage you to try some natural supplements that may be able to address some of the underlying factors as well as some of the discomforts. Fibro-Balance is a new supplement that may hold some promise for you. If you would like, you can read more about the recent study at www.fibromyalgia-support.org/fibrobalance-study.html.

[Lorraine]

Hi Jessie
I also think that this fibromyalgia is a condition I might have inherited from my grandmother. I now believe that I have had it all my life (now 56 yrs old).
My grandmother (whom my father always said I most resembled), apparently grew up without an education because she was always sick and hardly attended school. Although it was too late to verify this (everyone who might have known had died by the time I was diagnosed), it is typical of children with CSF today.
I now feel I have a better , though too late,understanding of my long deceased grandmother and wish I could turn back the clock. I hope your family is fully understanding of your illness.
After trying many therapies, I found that the subtle stretching exercises of Feldenkrais have been the ONLY thing that has helped my pain. Good luck. Lorraine