Fibromyalgia Flashcards
What is fibromyalgia characterized by?
Widespread non articular musculoskeletal pain or multiple tender points lasting more than 3 months
Other symptoms include fatigue and sleep disturbances.
How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
Clinically, as there are no objective tests or biomarkers demonstrating sufficient diagnostic accuracy
Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment of symptoms.
What are common symptoms associated with chronic widespread pain (CWP) in fibromyalgia?
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue
- Morning stiffness
- Muscle weakness
- Paresthesias (itching, burning)
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Chronic headaches
- Mood disturbances
- Irritable bowel syndrome
These symptoms accompany the core features of CWP and tenderness.
What is the recommended approach for medical management of fibromyalgia?
Symptom-based pharmacology therapy together with nonpharmacologic therapies
Attention to specific symptoms reported by the patient is crucial.
What is the current standard of care for fibromyalgia?
A stepped care model where multiple therapies are layered atop one another
This approach aims to achieve meaningful improvement.
What pharmacotherapy options are available for fibromyalgia?
- NSAIDs for muscle aching and stiffness
- Tramadol for pain relief
- Pregabalin (FDA approved)
- SNRIs (duloxetine, milnacipran)
- SSRIs (fluoxetine, paroxetine)
- Dopaminergic agents (pramipexole)
- Tricyclic antidepressants in low doses
Psychotropic agents can reduce pain centrally, even without depression.
What non-pharmacological therapies are recommended for fibromyalgia?
- Patient education
- Exercise
- Cognitive therapy
- Neurostimulation therapies (PNS, ONS)
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
These therapies can be combined with medication for better outcomes.
What factors should be included in a holistic assessment of fibromyalgia patients?
- Beliefs and thoughts about the condition
- Level of functional activity
- Mood status
- Sleep patterns
- Patient’s role in family and workplace
Understanding these factors can guide management strategies.
What is the goal of fibromyalgia treatment?
To improve physical and mental health and quality of life
Interventions should aim for better functioning.
What predictors of physical functioning in fibromyalgia patients have been identified?
- Greater education
- Lower intensity fatigue
- Aerobic or strength training exercises
These factors can enhance physical functioning.
What complementary and alternative medications have been reported to benefit fibromyalgia patients?
- Tai-chi
- Yoga
- Meditation
These treatments can lead to higher quality of life and lower pain levels.
What is motivational interviewing (MI) in the context of fibromyalgia management?
A patient-centered approach to promote behavioral changes
MI has shown efficiency in medical settings for issues like exercise and pain management.
True or False: Tramadol is the only opiate shown to provide relief in fibromyalgia.
True
It is noted for its specific efficacy in this condition.
