Question: Are Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome the Same Thing?
The symptoms of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are really similar, and so are a lot of the drugs, dietary supplements and lifestyle changes recommended for managing them. Are fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome the same thing? If not, what's the difference?
Answer: The answer depends on who you ask. Some doctors believe they are the same or are different forms of the same condition.
As researchers learn more about fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, they're learning more and more about the differences between them.
For instance, the immune systems of people with chronic fatigue syndrome typically behave as though they're actively fighting an infection, even though no infection is present. People with fibromyalgia don't have the same immune response going on.
For a comparison of the two conditions, read Is it Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Other Chronic Fatigue Syndrome FAQs
- Why Does Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have So Many Names?
- Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome a Psychological Condition?
Other Fibromyalgia FAQs
- Why Don't Drugs like Advil, Motrin and Aleve Work for Fibromyalgia Pain?
- Is Fibromyalgia Degenerative?
- Is Fibromyalgia an Autoimmune Condition?
- Is Fibromyalgia Progressive?
Source:
Arthritis Foundation "What’s in a Name: Fibro vs. CFS"
