Fibromyalgia Flashcards
What is fibromyalgia? and who is most commonly affected?
A condition causing widespread pain and fatigue for more than three months
= Women (6:1 ratio), especially aged 22-50
What triggers fibromyalgia?
Emotional or physical trauma; also seen in RA (25%) and SLE (50%)
What are the key symptoms?
- Widespread pain
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches
- Cognitive issues
- Mood disorders
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
Clinically, based on widespread pain for ≥3 months with no other explanation
A 54-year-old woman with known osteoarthritis and irritable bowel syndrome presents to the GP for the 3rd time in 4 months. She complains of widespread pain in her limbs, neck and lower back as well as fatigue. On further questioning, the back pain does not radiate and though she has not had sleep disturbance she does not feel refreshed after sleep. She does feel chronically low in her mood but still enjoys seeing friends and playing bridge when her pain is mild and she can get out of the house. She has no change in weight, appetite or concentration
What is the most likely diagnosis?
Fibromyalgia
A 41-year-old female presents with lethargy and pain all over her body. This has been present for the past six months and is often worse when she is stressed or cold. Clinical examination is unremarkable other than a large number of tender points throughout her body.
A series of blood tests including an autoimmune screen, inflammatory markers and thyroid function are normal.
Given the likely diagnosis, what would be most beneficial to give?
Cognitive behavioural therapy
