Also, people who have fibromyalgia are not at greater risk for any other musculoskeletal disease. The pain of fibromyalgia usually seems worse when a person is trying to relax and is less noticeable during busy activities or exercise. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. There are, however, many theories about why people get fibromyalgia. One theory suggests that stress contributes to the onset of fibromyalgia.
Stress often results in disturbed sleep patterns and a lack of restful sleep.
When you don't get enough sleep, your body does not produce the chemicals necessary to control or regulate pain. A lack of these pain-regulating chemicals results in tenderness in the upper back and forearms, leading to the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Physical and emotional factors may also contribute to the onset of fibromyalgia. When you are sick, you may worry about your health and become anxious, depressed or inactive. These emotional factors could make your symptoms worse and aggravate fibromyalgia.