Fibromyalgia: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and management

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is a complex syndrome with physical and psychological manifestations. The cause is unknown, and the role of medication is limited. Treatment aims to optimise physical, psychological and social function. Due to the impact of symptoms, patients often need support and guidance to live well with the condition. This article discusses fibromyalgia's aetiology, symptoms, classification, diagnosis and treatment. It focuses on the role of the nurse in supporting psychological interventions and guided self-management, including exercise, goal setting and sleep hygiene.

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

In this article…

• The symptoms, diagnosis, classification and comorbidities of fibromyalgia

• Aims, approaches and evaluation of fibromyalgia management

• The nurse's role in supporting patient education and self-management

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Key points

Fibromyalgia is a common, complex condition of unknown aetiology

There is no specific diagnostic test, and diagnosis is made on the presence of symptoms

Common symptoms are pain, fatigue and unrefreshing sleep, with treatment aiming to manage symptoms effectively

Treatment involves self-management, psychological therapies, physical therapies and pharmacological management

Patients should be informed about the limited role of medication