Prolonged activities:
(1) prolonged sitting
(2) prolonged writing
(3) prolonged deskwork or handwork
(4) prolonged use of the telephone
(5) prolonged use of a computer
(6) prolonged standing
(7) prolonged bending over or working in an awkward position
(8) prolonged driving
(9) prolonged walking or climbing
(10) prolonged mental activity (may involve calculations, recall of facts, etc.)
(11) prolonged stress
(12) prolonged workshift
Physical activities
(1) exertion with muscular activity
(2) reaching overhead
(3) heavy lifting or carrying
(4) housework
(5) repeated moving and lifting
Environmental stimuli:
(1) caffeine
(2) nicotine
(3) exposure to allergen
(4) chemical exposure
(5) chemical food additives (monosodium glutamate, sulfates, etc.)
(6) change in temperature (associated with heat or cold)
(7) noise
(8) vibration
(9) odors
(10) medications
Change in lifestyle (typically associated with stressor):
(1) change in sleep schedule
(2) travel
(3) jet lag
(4) change in work schedule or shift
(5) need to perform multiple tasks at the same time (multi-tasking)
(6) deadlines
If a person finds that one or more of these conditions aggravates fibromyalgia, then s/he should try to avoid them in the future whenever possible.
If prolonged activities are a trigger, then the person should take breaks and try to simplify tasks.
If physical exertion is a trigger, then these should be avoided. However, non-exertional exercise is encouraged.
If environmental exposures are a problem, then these should be removed or avoided as much as possible.
If a lifestyle change is a trigger, then these should be avoided or else adjusted to be less stressful.
