Does Fibromyalgia Cause Lung Problems?

Posted on Wed, 25 Feb 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 Answered on

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi I have had Fibromyalgi for 14 years but in the last 5 years have developed lung problems . I have had pneumonia 3 times Chronic eosinophilic and a collapsed portion of lung. I had a CT scan over a month ago but my chest now feels very congested. My specialist is now saying it is from my Fibro can this be possible? On x-ray my chest looked much better. Could I have your opinion on this? Thankyou
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Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Fibromyalgia does not usually cause lung problems

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question. Fibromyalgia is a disease that causes pain fatigue and other symptoms. Lung problems are not a known complication of fibromyalgia. If you are having recurrent pneumonias I would consider a different diagnosis as the cause for this. It would be best to see a pulmonologist to sort this out. You could have some underlying immune deficiency or other autoimmune problem causing you're a recurrent lung infections. Regards,
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (25 hours later)

It is also been suggested that my sinuses could be draining into my chest do you think that could be reason for cough,rasping voice etc. I actually brought up some sputum this a.m. which was a dark almost brown-green color that has not happened to me for a long time, I normally have a difficult time bring up anything. I Thank you for your imput.

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
yes that is possible

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for your follow up.
It is certainly possible that chronic sinus congestion, infection and drainage could cause irritation to the throat causing cough and raspy voice. Unless you are aspirating the mucus (meaning inhaling it down into your trachea) I don't think it explains the pneumonias. With the chronic sinus inflammation using a sterile saline spray that you can buy at the pharmacy could help clear up your sinuses if you use it regularly 3-4 times a day.
Good day to you
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D