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I've heard that you can get fibromyalgia from being a victim of child abuse. Is this really true? Both my sister and I grew up in a violent home. She has fibromyalgia, but I don't. Does this mean I will eventually come down with it?

People who suffer from chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, temporomandibular disease (jaw pain), or pelvic pain may have more in common than doctors once believed. Recent research has uncovered some new understanding about the way pain develops and is perceived by the affected individual that may link these conditions together. Risk factors for fibromyalgia or any one of these other pain syndromes do include stress and trauma -- physical or emotional trauma. That could be the result of a car accident, giving birth to a child, or as you suggested, being a victim of child abuse or domestic violence. Anyone who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is at risk for a problem like fibromyalgia. That includes survivors of war, terrorism, and torture. But there are other risk factors as well. Women seem to be much more susceptible to this condition than men. That suggests a possible hormonal cause. Fibromyalgia does run in families, pointing to a possible inherited or genetic link. This hasn't been proven yet but scientists are actively studying specific genes, receptors for pain and other neurotransmitters, and chemicals involved in stress responses. Other stressors have been identified as triggers including infections such as Epstein-Barr virus or Lyme disease, and thyroid disorders. Right now, there's no way to predict who might develop fibromyalgia. The best prevention is self-care including proper rest, good nutrition, and daily physical activity and exercise. With a history of abuse, it might be helpful to see a psychologist or licensed counselor to develop healthy stress management techniques. Reducing risk factors that act as triggers for this condition may be helpful, but again, research is limited in this area. There's no active proof that taking these steps will prevent fibromyalgia. But there's plenty of evidence that a lifestyle of this type will enhance health and prevent many other chronic conditions. Either way, you'll benefit!

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