Fibromyalgia

While fibromyalgia and autism are distinct conditions, emerging research suggests a potential link, with individuals with autistic traits or diagnoses being more likely to experience fibromyalgia, and vice versa. This connection may be related to shared underlying mechanisms, including sensory processing differences and central sensitization. 

Here’s a more detailed look at the potential connection:

1. Increased Prevalence in Certain Groups:

• Autistic Traits and Fibromyalgia:Studies indicate that individuals with autistic traits, including those on the autism spectrum, may have a higher prevalence of fibromyalgia. 
• Fibromyalgia and Autistic Traits:Conversely, some individuals with fibromyalgia may exhibit autistic traits or have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with autism. 
• Hypermobility:A study found that hypermobility partially mediated the relationship between autistic traits and fibromyalgia. 

2. Shared Mechanisms:

• Sensory Processing Differences:Both fibromyalgia and autism are associated with heightened sensory sensitivity, including sensitivity to light, sound, and touch. 
• Central Sensitization:Fibromyalgia is characterized by central sensitization, where the nervous system becomes overly sensitive to pain signals. Some research suggests that this may also be relevant in autism, with sensory processing differences potentially leading to heightened pain perception. 
• Pain:Chronic pain is a common feature of both fibromyalgia and autism, with some individuals with autism experiencing chronic or recurrent pain. 

3. Potential Implications:

• Increased Challenges:The combination of autism and fibromyalgia can lead to increased challenges in managing daily activities, social interactions, and overall well-being. 
• Diagnosis and Management:Recognizing the potential link between fibromyalgia and autism can facilitate earlier diagnosis and more effective management of both conditions. 
• Research Needs:Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between fibromyalgia and autism, including the underlying mechanisms and potential interventions. 

4. Mental Health Considerations:

• Many autistic people have problems like feeling very worried a lot of the time (anxiety) or feeling unhappy, irritable or hopeless (depression). 
• Anxiety and depression can also be symptoms of fibromyalgia. 

It’s really important to get the right diagnosis when someone has symptoms that are common in both autism spectrum disorder and fibromyalgia. Doctors need to be very careful, especially since many people with chronic musculoskeletal pain might also show signs of autism.

If you’re transgender or non-binary, there’s a higher chance of getting an incorrect diagnosis because these groups often have more cases of fibromyalgia, autism traits, and flexible joints⁸. It’s also tricky to tell the difference between these conditions and something called borderline personality disorder. That’s why it’s key for doctors to look at every detail so they can give you the right diagnosis and help you in the best way possible.

If you feel like you’ve been given a misdiagnosis, feel uncomfortable in appointments, or you are not happy with your doctor for another reason, it’s okay to seek a second opinion. Everyone deserves respectful healthcare, and learning to advocate for yourself is an important skill.