A condition with widespread pain and tenderness in the whole body.
Fibromyalgia affects not only muscles, bones and joints but also the nervous system.
SYMPTOMS
- Chronic widespread pain
- Fatigue
- Poor sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory issues
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Mood changes- low mood, irritability
- Tingling and numbness
- Headaches
- Painful menstrual periods
- Diarrhoea, Bloating, constipation- Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) symptoms
- Swelling in hands and feet
- Overly sensitive joints and muscles
- Stress
- Restless legs syndrome
FACTS
- Prevalence- 2-3 % globally
- 1.8 -2.9 million in UK suffer from Fibromyalgia
- Women > Men
- Age 25-55 but children can get it too
- Incidence increases with age
- 3rd most frequent musculoskeletal condition
CAUSES – Cause is still unknown however mostly seem to be associated with
- Genetic causes
- ACE- Adverse childhood events
- Mind- body relationship- stress, depression, anxiety, traumatic event
- Possibly with arthritis and other comorbidities – Diabetes, heart conditions, thyroid
DIAGNOSIS
There is not single blood test or X-ray or a scan that can confirm this diagnosis
Healthcare professional will ask questions and give you symptom checker questionnaires to check your symptoms to confirm this diagnosis
https://www.fpmx.com.au/resources/office/New_Clinical_Fibromyalgia_Diagnostic_Criteria.pdf
MANAGEMENT
A holistic approach taking into consideration of individual’s goals should be adapted
- Patient education- Knowledge helps improve the symptoms management
- Improving fitness – exercise within available limits -pain management programs
- Psychotherapy – talking therapies, CBT, mindfulness practice etc
- Medications- To manage symptoms as discussed with healthcare professionals
- Complementary therapy- Acupuncture 10 sessions can reduce and help manage the symptoms
- Social support and Occupational therapy support useful to adapt in life
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41584-020-00506-w
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng193
https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/fibromyalgia
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