Tender Points: A Very Touchy Subject
Low tolerance for abrupt changes in temperature
The hypothalamus in fibromyalgia patients does not have the same capability of regulating the body’s reaction to outside temperature. The possible cause behind this imbalance is hypothyroidism. Low hormone levels contribute to this gland’s incapability of maintaining homeostasis, the body’s balance between cold and hot. Aside from not being able to adapt, in some situations, the body takes to too long to adjust to changing temperatures.
When experiencing extra sensitivity to heat or cold, a person needs to consult with his or her doctor for further testing of the thyroid’s function in conjunction with consistent monitoring. Some tests yielded results that showed “normal” thyroid activity, but the symptoms persist. If this is the case, there are further treatments that can address these symptoms and thyroid function.
