Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
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 💭
Boise, ID

I used to look forward to summer ; I was in constant search of warmth. But I’ve noticed as i get sicker and sicker that I prefer cooler weather so I can (strangely??) add warmth to myself. I keep an electric blanket in most every room in the house. I ‘collect’ soft blankets and warm soft clothes. I no longer seem to be able to control my own temperature. Warm weather hurts, but in cool weather I need to pile on the blankets. (This damn disease is going to make me crazy🤪)

So here’s my question… read more

June 16, 2022
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members strongly resonated with the experience of struggling to regulate body temperature with fibromyalgia, with many describing sensitivity... Read more

Members strongly resonated with the experience of struggling to regulate body temperature with fibromyalgia, with many describing sensitivity to both extreme heat and cold, particularly noting that humidity and barometric pressure changes trigger increased pain and fatigue. Several members shared practical coping strategies including using electric blankets throughout their homes, tracking daily barometric pressure to anticipate flare-ups, and moving to warmer climates during winter months when possible. A recurring theme was the scientific explanation that fibromyalgia disrupts the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, which controls body temperature regulation, with many members also noting that thyroid issues and certain blood pressure medications can further complicate temperature sensitivity.

A MyFibroTeam Member

It's to do with the hypothalamus. 
What Causes Temperature Sensitivity 
Body temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a section of the brain responsible for hormone production. It is considered the link between the nervous system and the endocrine system.

The hypothalamus not only controls body temperature. It controls energy levels, the sleep cycle, muscular function, circulation, the gut and defense against infection.

Most fibromyalgia symptoms seem to be due to imbalances in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis). These three glands work together to control hormone levels. Disruptions in the HPA axis seem to be at the core of fibromyalgia.

Thyroid hormones also play a role in regulating body temperature. An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause a person to feel too hot, while an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause a person to feel too cold.

The thyroid gland is under the control of the pituitary gland. The pituitary gland itself is regulated by the hypothalamus. Anything that disrupts the HPA axis will also suppress thyroid function.

June 16, 2022
A MyFibroTeam Member

I live in ohio. I seem to be better in the warmer weather. I'm in a lot of pain most of the winter. Winter here lasts too long.

June 17, 2022
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes I lived in Phx and I couldn't stand the extreme heat .
I moved yo OR and use electric blankets and heating pads.
Extreme Temps don't do any favors for fibro ppl.

June 17, 2022
A MyFibroTeam Member

Absolutely! This humidity is killing me.

June 17, 2022
A MyFibroTeam Member

Oh yes definitely 🥵😰🙌

June 16, 2022

Related Questions

View All
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Stockport, UK

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Laredo, TX

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
San Antonio, TX