10 Triggers that All Fibromyalgia Patients Should Be Aware Of

Living with fibromyalgia can sometimes seem like traveling down a road with many potholes. With that picture in mind, the symptoms of fibromyalgia can be aggravated by quite a number of “potholes” out there, so one must carefully avoid them as much as possible in order to prevent fibromyalgia symptoms from flaring up. It is very important that thorough care is taken since it can sometimes take days to recuperate fully from the pain or damage caused by a trigger.

A good understanding of the things or foods that can trigger the symptoms of fibromyalgia and how to manage them will be a good guide as the patients and their caregivers travel down this road with many potholes. Although, each person’s reaction to these various threats or triggers is somewhat different, there are quite a few triggers that all fibromyalgia patients should be conscious of. Here is a list that highlights and explains 10 of those common triggers:

1. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

MSG is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, which is naturally found in some fruits and vegetables and is used as an additive in a lot of processed foods to boost the flavor. Like quite a number of food additives, monosodium glutamate is an excitotoxin that stimulates neurons, which then increase pain sensitivity in those suffering from fibromyalgia.

Whenever there is a label on food that shows it contains yeast extract, Gelatin, Glutamic Acid (E 620)2, Caseinate, Glutamate (E 620), or anything hydrolyzed among the ingredients, it is advisable to avoid it. Glutamic Acid (E 620)2 and Glutamate (E 620) are just different names for MSG, while the other ingredients mentioned contain high levels of MSG but aren’t required to indicate it. Fruits and vegetables that naturally contain MSG include tomatoes, potatoes, and mushrooms.

2. Caffeine

Most fibromyalgia patients find out that they often get tired and worn out easily. For this reason, coffee or energy drinks may seem like rescue options to help boost energy levels and deal with fatigue and exhaustion. However, the caffeine content of these beverages can, in fact, worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia and may not have a significant effect on energy levels in many cases. Caffeine typically stays in the system for 3-7 hours and may cause fever, dizziness, and sleeplessness.

3. Sleeplessness

The issue of sleep is somewhat like a riddle for fibromyalgia patients. While some sleep problems, such as insomnia, can occur as a result of some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia, lack of sleep, on the other hand, can also worsen some of the symptoms of fibromyalgia and lead to increased pain sensitivity. This makes sleeplessness a sort of vicious cycle that can be hard to break.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been found to be very effective in treating insomnia in patients with chronic conditions. In fact, it has been suggested by some research studies that CBT may provide more lasting relief than some prescription medications.[1] Irrespective of the chosen method (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Medications), it is crucial for a fibromyalgia patient to get the best amount of rest possible.