Sympathetic Nervous System Dysfunction in Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and Interstitial Cystitis

Abstract

This review demonstrates that sympathetic nervous system predominance is common in fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and interstitial cystitis. This concordance raises the possibility that sympathetic dysfunction could be their common underlying pathogenesis that brings on overlapping clinical features. The recognition of sympathetic predominance in these 4 syndromes may have potential clinical implications. It may be worth exploring the use of nonpharmacological measures as well as drug therapies aimed to regain autonomic balance.

Neurogenic neuroinflammation in fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome

“…34 The sympathetic nervous system The sympathetic nervous system contributes to the clini cal features of both fibromyalgia and CRPS. 20,44 Indeed, many previous treatments were based on this associa tion. 116,117 Patients with fibromyalgia show high levels of emotional distress and reduced heart rate variability, indicating ongoing sympathetic hyperactivity.…”

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Case Definitions, Possible Causes, and Therapies

“…17 Methods most often used to assess sympathetic functionality were heart rate (HR) variability analysis, sympathetic skin response, tilt table testing, and genetic studies.…”

Recognize Comorbid Fibromyalgia Syndrome in Order to Better Evaluate Selected Rheumatic Diseases

“…The first appeals to the intellect. Fibromyalgia syndrome is a symptom complex at the severe end of a pain-distress spectrum [4,9,10] It is a fascinating illness: a primary response to distress with demonstrated secondary process factors and dysfunction related to the endocrine [11] autonomic system [12], central nervous system [13], sleep quality [14], and arguably, even the immune system [15].…”