Environmental factors and fibromyalgia syndrome: a narrative review

Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2024 Jun;42(6):1240-1247. doi: 10.55563/clinexprheumatol/4e091z. Epub 2024 Jun 10.

Abstract

This in-depth review of fibromyalgia (FM), which is a complex condition characterised by chronic pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and a spectrum of diagnostically and therapeutically challenging symptoms, underlines the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach that also takes into account the psychological factors affecting patient responses. We focus on the substantial impact that environmental factors (climatic variations, air pollution, electromagnetic field exposure, physical and emotional traumas, dietary patterns, and infections) have on the manifestation and intensity of symptoms, and advocate personalised, holistic treatment of patients' psychological and environmental sensitivities by suggesting the benefits of tailored dietary and stress management. We also call for further research into the complex interplay of environmental, biological and psychological factors influencing FM in order to develop more effective individualised treatments that are capable of enhancing patient care and outcomes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollution / adverse effects
  • Diet / adverse effects
  • Electromagnetic Fields / adverse effects
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects
  • Fibromyalgia* / diagnosis
  • Fibromyalgia* / etiology
  • Fibromyalgia* / physiopathology
  • Fibromyalgia* / psychology
  • Fibromyalgia* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Stress, Psychological / complications
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology