Fibromyalgia

Abstract

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain involving any body tissue and typically accompanied by fatigue and problems with sleep, mood, and memory. Fibromyalgia can occur alone or in combination with other chronic overlapping primary pain conditions, or it can be superimposed on other conditions, such as autoimmune disorders (secondary pain). In fibromyalgia, the central nervous system (CNS) is hyperresponsive to sensory stimuli generally. Successful pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions focus on the CNS to support CNS quiescence and a return to homeostasis. Although fibromyalgia is rarely curable, most cases can be well managed in the context of primary care.