# data[].attributes.body
T/F: Strength training and exercise relieve fibromyalgia pain.

# data[].attributes.body
80-90% of people who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Fibromyalgia Facts and Tips

1. The two most common fibromyalgia symptoms are widespread chronic pain and debilitating fatigue.

2. About 5 million people in the US who are 18 years or older have fibromyalgia. Most people with fibromyalgia are diagnosed when they're middle-aged.¹

3. The majority of people who have fibromyalgia are women-about 80% to 90% of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women. But men and children can have fibromyalgia, too.¹

4. There are 18 tender points-a classic fibromyalgia symptom-located all over the body, including on the neck, chest, back, and knees. Patients who have fibromyalgia experience pain in at least 11 of the 18 tender points.

5. Many people with fibromyalgia have memory and concentration problems. This is often referred to as "brain fog" or "fibro fog."

6. Fibromyalgia usually doesn't have just one main cause. Instead, many factors can contribute to developing this chronic pain condition, such as your genes, an injury, or trauma.

7. Being overweight or obese may trigger fibromyalgia. But maintaining a healthy weight can reduce fibromyalgia symptoms.

8. Currently, there are 3 FDA-approved medications that can help treat fibromyalgia symptoms: duloxetine (Cymbalta), pregabalin (Lyrica), and milnacipran (Savella).

9. Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids-which are found in foods, such as salmon, flaxseed, walnuts, and olive oil-can help reduce fibromyalgia-related pain. If you don't like these foods, you can take a fish oil supplement to boost your omega-3s.

10. Exercise is a very important part of fibromyalgia treatment. Try to incorporate aerobic, strengthening, and flexibility exercises as part of a regular exercise program to help treat pain and other fibromyalgia symptoms.

11. If you have another pain condition-rheumatoid arthritis, for example-you may be more susceptible to developing fibromyalgia.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Fibromyalgia Facts and Tips The two most common fibromyalgia symptoms are widespread chronic pain and debilitating fatigue. About 5 million people in the US who are 18 years or older have fibromyalgia. Most people with fibromyalgia are diagnosed when they're middle-aged.1 The majority of people who have fibromyalgia are women-about 80% to 90% of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women.

# data[].attributes.body
Diagnosing Criteria/diagnostic studies:

Widespread pain for more than 3 months combined with sleep problems, not thinking clearly, and fatigue

The Med Surg book describes the use of tender points as diagnostic criteria

Newer information states the use of a Fibromyalgia scale instead of using tender points

scores on a 0-31 point scale rather than classifying them as either having FM or not having FM.

Common Labs:

Lab tests are not usually done to confirm a fibromyalgia diagnosis

May be done to rule out other causes of the symptoms before diagnosing fibromyalgia

Blood tests: complete blood count, erythrocyte, sedimentation rate, and thyroid function tests

Muscle biopsy can be used to reveal fiber atrophy

# data[].attributes.body
Causes:
-No known causes
-Variety of factors--
-Genetics, infections, physical or emotional trauma

Risk Factors
-Women > Men
-Family History
-Rheumatic Disease

Complications:
-Sleep deprivation
-Depression
-Anxiety

# data[].attributes.body
Medications:
Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium. *Narcotics not advised, as they may worsen the pain over time.*
Antidepressants:
Cymbalta and Savella- help ease pain and fatigue.
Anti-seizure drugs:
Gabapentin and pregabalin- helpful in reducing symptoms.
Non-Pharmacological Treatments:
Counseling: Can help you realize your strengths and abilities and teach you strategies to deal with stressful situations.
Physical Therapy, Therapeutic Massage, Aerobics, Acupuncture, Yoga, Relaxation Exercises, Aromatherapy, Heat and Cold Application, and Breathing Techniques.
*Nurse will educate patient on these treatment and therapy options and collaborate with these care providers to provide treatment and care.

# data[].attributes.body
a widespread musculoskeletal pain that is usually combined with fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues.

amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes the pain signals.

Signs/Symptoms

symptoms usually happen after a trauma or accident

usually builds up over time and there is no specific trigger

widespread pain

constant dull ache that lasts for 3-4 months

must occur on both sides of your body and above and below your waist

fatigue

cognitive difficulties

impairs the ability to focus and pay attention

depression

headaches

pain or cramping in the lower abdomen