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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.

does fibro make it easier to get other illnesses

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Saltash, UK

I just wondered if anyone else has noticed if they have just got sicker since the fibro started.
On top of having Fibro/PTSD/BPD I now have a whole range of different illnesses.
I now have Insomnia, irregular heartbeat, damaged liver, chronic headaches, type 2 diabetes, IBS, sickness for no reason for 2 yrs now, Candidiasis, Dermatillomania and most recently Ovarian Cysts it just doesn't make any sense

October 3, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly agreed that fibromyalgia seems to weaken the immune system and make them more susceptible to additional illnesses, with... Read more

Members overwhelmingly agreed that fibromyalgia seems to weaken the immune system and make them more susceptible to additional illnesses, with many sharing long lists of conditions they developed after their fibro diagnosis, including IBS, migraines, insomnia, Raynaud's, autoimmune disorders, and chronic infections that last longer and occur more frequently. Several members offered practical guidance, recommending Dr. Ginevra Liptan's book The Fibro Manual for detailed explanations, keeping symptom diaries for doctors, and being mindful that some medications like Tylenol can cause liver damage. A recurring theme was the emotional toll of living with multiple overlapping conditions, especially for younger members who feel robbed of normal activities with their children and social lives, yet finding comfort in knowing they are not alone in this complex and ever-changing disease.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Read Ginerva Liptons book The Fibro Manual. It explains most of this for you. She is an MD with fibro

October 4, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I honestly feel it weakens your immune system with all the pain and fatigue

October 3, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes. Fibro, per my Dr. Is an autoimmune disease, so our immune system is not working correctly. A lot of the time it can affect you in that way. Also some of a persons illnesses could have been there before and they just had not been found before that person was diagnosed with fibro.

October 4, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I think it might be due to our immune systems. They don't work. I too have more than just the fibro. I have IBS, migraines, depression, toe nail fungus, herniated discs in my lower back and in my neck. I have cervical pain shoulder arm and hand pain. I have reynauds in my hands and feet.

October 10, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Fibro and ptsd can cause a range of symptoms including insomnia, irregular heartbeat, chronic headaches, ibs. Liver damage could be from meds...i had to stop taking tylenol. Compromised immune system also makes you prone to rashes. All connected.

October 5, 2016

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