Fibromyalgia linked to microbiome variation

[andyguitar]

One thing I have noticed over the years regarding Fibro sufferers I have met is that they tend to have a more negative/depressive outlook.

 

[Hip]

One thing I have noticed over the years regarding Fibro sufferers I have met is that they tend to have a more negative/depressive outlook.

Maybe that's to do with the elevated substance P in fibromyalgia, as substance P is linked to depression.

Substance P is one of the factors that differentiates fibromyalgia from ME/CFS, as in ME/CFS its levels are normal.

 

[panckage]

What I don't understand is why they say exercise is beneficial for Fibro patients whereas its often the worse thing ME patients can do.

I've been diagnosed with both ME and fibro. My theory is the difference is based on the severity. I am considered mild cfs because I can still work (barely!). Exercise helps prevent decondtioning, produces endorphins and a bunch of other positive things. These are helpful as long as I don't cross the PEM threshold.

For someone more effected, going to the bathroom may cause PEM. Obviously exercise is a nono here.

Dr Bateman though, she considers orthostatic intolerance an important differentiater (usually only present in ME)

 

[Learner1]

The doctors at the recent NIH Conference all recommended exercise within one's energy envelope for some if the same benefits you describe.

I believe PEM happens when resources become depleted by exercise and are not replenished, having found that taking glutathione and BCAAs can avoid or reverse PEM. B vitamins, NAD+, thyroid and hydrocortisone can affect PEM as well.