Autoimmune

Researchers are becoming more aware of the immune system and how it plays a role in the development of fibromyalgia.  When the immune system is activated it can affect the peripheral nerves, portions of the spinal cord and brain, causing an increase in pain.  A good example of this phenomenon is shingles, which is a herpes virus that attacks the nerves, causing excruciating pain. Many people diagnosed with fibromyalgia relate that the onset of their symptoms occurred either during or right after a viral infection such as the flu. Exactly how the immune system is involved in the development of fibromyalgia is still a mystery, but scientific researchers are busy investigating this connection.