According to recent research, hypothyroidism and fibromyalgia are definitely linked. People with thyroid dysfunction often segue into fibromyalgia. But because the symptoms are similar, it's challenging to separate the two diseases.
Not really! During the decades that fibromyalgia was "all in our heads", physicians attempted to pin the totally-body pain and multiple symptoms of fibro onto hypothyroidism. Perhaps they were on the right track, but they didn't explore the total ramifications of fibromyalgia for years. Rather they seemed content to blame it on the inadequate hormones produced by a dysfunctional thyroid gland.
Both diseases manifest almost identical symptoms:
.Depression
.Chronic fatigue
.Brain Fog or Fibro Fog
.Soft tissue tenderness and pain
.Joint pain
.Stiffness, which is worse when waking-up
.Cognitive issues, i.e. poor attention span, forgetfulness
.Irritable bowel syndrome
.Multiple Allergies
.Dysfunctional sleep patterns
Some experts suspect the hypothalamus gland as being the root cause of both thyroid disease and fibromyalgia.
When the hypothalamus gland runs amuck symptoms such as: unexplained weight gain, sleep problems, unseasonable coldness and/or lowered immune system can manifest.
A compromised metabolism can cause flare-ups. Some factors that encourage a sluggish metabolism include: hormones out of whack, fluctuating blood glucose levels, not enough exercise, side-effects of mainstream drugs and allergies.
Certain lifestyle changes, such as exercising when we can, all that we can, eating a healthy diet and exploring alternative therapies, such as chiropractors, taking correct herbs and classes in Tai Chi or Yoga is a good start toward self-care.
We know the link between fibromyalgia and thyroid is there, but conventional doctors won't necessarily connect the two diseases until further scientific studies provide definitive proof.
Correct information is our best ally. Until mainstream medicine catches-up with ancient and Eastern practices, the medicine ball is in your court.
Well, you have done a great job on this. I have both of these conditions. Grrr.
Such a great medical lesson list presented so well.
Very informative. H5
select one here...