Fibromyalgia and Allergies
Does Fibromyalgia Trigger Allergies?
Q: After developing fibromyalgia four years ago, I became allergic to all shampoos and soaps. Do you know why this would happen and what I can do about it?
A: There is no evidence that fibromyalgia triggers “allergies” per se, but it is frequently associated with “hypersensitivities” to many substances. For unknown reasons, people with fibromyalgia often are more sensitive to chemicals (including, as in your case, those in shampoos and soaps), odors, bright lights and loud noises, as well as pain, although no one knows why.
There is no specific treatment for these symptoms, but treatments that help ease the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia – for example, exercise, medications and relaxation techniques – usually help make the problems with sensitivities better as well.
Daniel Clauw, MD
Rheumatologist
More Resources:
Arthritis Today Drug Guide: Medications for Fibromyalgia
The latest fibromyalgia news
Experts answer your fibromyalgia questions
