Fibromyalgia Flashcards
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterised by widespread pain throughout the body with tender points at specific anatomical sites. The cause of fibromyalgia is unknown.
Who is more likely to be affected by fibromyalgia?
Women are around 5 times more likely to be affected.
At what age does fibromyalgia typically present?
Fibromyalgia typically presents between 30-50 years old.
What are common features of fibromyalgia?
Common features include chronic pain at multiple sites, lethargy, cognitive impairment (‘fibro fog’), sleep disturbance, headaches, and dizziness.
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
Diagnosis is clinical and sometimes refers to the American College of Rheumatology classification criteria, which lists 9 pairs of tender points on the body. If a patient is tender in at least 11 of these 18 points, it makes a diagnosis of fibromyalgia more likely.
What is the management approach for fibromyalgia?
The management of fibromyalgia is often difficult and needs to be tailored to the individual patient. A psychosocial and multidisciplinary approach is helpful.
What are some treatments for fibromyalgia?
Treatments include aerobic exercise, cognitive behavioural therapy, and medications such as pregabalin, duloxetine, and amitriptyline.
What is the evidence base for aerobic exercise in fibromyalgia management?
Aerobic exercise has the strongest evidence base for managing fibromyalgia.
