Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) (Module 5)

Question 1

Fibromyalgia Patho

Answer 1

chronic pain syndrome
not inflammatory

Question 2

Fibromyalgia S/S

Answer 2

pain/stiffness/tenderness located at specific sites in back of neck, upper chest, trunk, lower back and extremities

trigger points can be palpated to elicit predictable pain (burning, gnawing)

increased muscle tenderness due to pain intolerance, possibly related to dysfunction in brain (thalamus and hypothalamus)

GI disturbances like abdominal pain, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation

GU manifestations like dysuria, urinary frequency, urgency, and pelvic pain

CV symptoms like dyspnea, chest pain, dysrhythmias

visual impairment (blurred vision, dry eyes)

neurologic symptoms including forgetfulness and concentration problems

Question 3

Fibromyalgia Risk Factors

Answer 3

women 25-55 yo
stress: alcohol, lack of sleep, etc.
comorbidities
genetics

Question 4

Fibromyalgia Meds

Answer 4

antidepressants (amitriptyline, nortriptyline)
anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin)
SNRIs (duloxetine)
trazadone (SARI)
tramadol (narcotic)

all promote sleep and reduce pain and muscle spasms

Question 5

Fibromyalgia Nursing Care

Answer 5

encourage home exercise (low impact activities like stretching, low-impact aerobic, walking, swimming, rowing, biking)

avoid coffee and alcohol

refer to arthritis resources

complimentary and alternative therapies (tai chi, acupuncture, hypnosis, stress management)