Aims: Diagnosis and treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) currently focuses on the experience of widespread pain. However, the symptom experience described by patients with FMS in clinical practice is far more diverse. This study aims identify the most common and severe symptoms in female patients diagnosed with FMS.
Methods: This study interviewed 56 patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia syndrome about their symptoms using the Clinical Interview Schedule--Revised.
Results: The most frequent and disabling symptoms reported by participants were fatigue, sleep disturbance and cognitive difficulties.
Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for a range of symptoms to be considered in the assessment and treatment of FMS to help improve patient outcomes.