Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly confirmed that catching a cold or flu triggers fibromyalgia flare-ups, with many describing worsening pain, severe... Read more

Members overwhelmingly confirmed that catching a cold or flu triggers fibromyalgia flare-ups, with many describing worsening pain, severe fatigue requiring extended rest, and anxiety about how their body will respond. Several members shared that illness leads to prolonged flare-ups lasting weeks or even months, with one member working in a school setting describing a cycle of repeated viruses keeping them in a continuous flare. A recurring theme was the compounding effect of illness on fibromyalgia symptoms, making recovery feel slower and more draining than it would be for someone without the condition.