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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
St Helens, UK

If you have had shingles in the past can this be a trigger for fibro.
I have not been diagnosed at the moment but I'm showing all the symptoms. X

March 4, 2015
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Answer Summary

Members explored whether shingles could trigger fibromyalgia, with many sharing that their fibro symptoms began or worsened after experiencing... Read more

Members explored whether shingles could trigger fibromyalgia, with many sharing that their fibro symptoms began or worsened after experiencing shingles, viral infections (including glandular fever, meningitis, and throat infections), or other severe physical trauma like surgeries and accidents. Several members described how stress, weakened immune systems, and past illnesses like chicken pox created a perfect storm for both conditions, noting the overlapping symptoms and the nervous system connection between shingles and fibro. A recurring theme was the belief that any significant physical or emotional trauma—whether viral, surgical, or stress-related—can act as a catalyst for fibromyalgia, with many members validating each other's experiences and expressing relief at finally understanding potential triggers for their chronic pain.

A MyFibroTeam Member

viral meningitis contributed to mine.

March 14, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Good question. I've not seen it addressed but I have noticed over the years that trauma, physical or mental, often triggers the symptoms.

March 7, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

I had chicken pox as a kid and shingles twice as an adult. I got the Shigrex Vaccine, it is not a live virus and shouldn’t cause shingles, though it has swollen glands and joint pain. At the time I go mine I didn’t know I had rheumatoid arthritis.

January 17, 2024
A MyFibroTeam Member

I had chicken pox twice once as a child and once as an adult. Plus shingles.

February 5, 2023
A MyFibroTeam Member

I had shingles as a child (2 times) but never as an adult. I never had any pain with it though....just tons of itching and a rash that looked like welts. Haven't gotten the shingles shot either. I think a defunct immune system affected by stress is a key to what we have to deal with.

October 2, 2022

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