What can make fibromyalgia symptoms worse?

The widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction of FM can cause significant bodily stress, so any additional stressors (like physical activity, psychological distress, sleep disturbances, poor diet, or infections) can cause a flare-up of FM symptoms. People with FM often have a decreased quality of life, which can further cause psychological distress, thereby creating a worsening cycle of symptoms. As such, finding ways to reduce stress is key to managing flare-ups.^[1]