My 23-year old daughter was just diagnosed with fibromyalgia. She was always a healthy child with no major problems. What could cause this problem now?

With more than six million women affected by this condition, many researchers, doctors, and patients are looking for some answers. New ideas and information are reported every year. Research to date suggests a link with the autonomic nervous system (ANS).

The ANS control automatic functions like breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and blood pressure. Since the majority of patients with fibromyalgia are women, there is a strong suspicion that hormonal activity is a major influence.

Some researchers have shown a possible connection with thyroid function. Others have identified a enteric or "gut" (gastrointestinal) cause. Some experts link past emotional or physical trauma to a delayed onset of symptoms. Most recently there has been some indication that spinal deformities can trigger this condition. It's also possible that there are many different individual causes.

The National Fibromyalgia Research Association has more information on this condition and the latest research findings. You can contact them by phone (1-800-574-3468) or go to their web site: www.nfra.net.

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