K.N.O.W. Home Health - FIBROMYALGIA

FIBROMYALGIA

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a health problem that causes long-lasting pain all over the body. People with fibromyalgia may also feel tired and have trouble sleeping or thinking clearly. It is not dangerous, but it can affect your daily life and how you feel.

What Causes Fibromyalgia?

Doctors don’t know the exact cause, but it may be linked to:

Problems with how the brain and nerves send pain signals
Stress or trauma (like a car accident)
Other illnesses like arthritis
Family history (it can run in families)

What Are the Symptoms?

Widespread pain all over the body
Feeling tired all the time (fatigue)
Problems sleeping
“Brain fog” or trouble thinking clearly
Headaches
Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Stiffness in the morning
Feeling anxious or depressed

How Is Fibromyalgia Treated?

There is no cure, but symptoms can be managed with:

Medicine (pain relievers, sleep aids, or depression medications)
Exercise, like walking or stretching
Stress management (like yoga, deep breathing, or talking to a counselor)
Good sleep habits
Physical therapy

Ways to Reduce Pain

Stay active, even if it’s just light walking
Take warm baths or showers
Use heating pads
Avoid stress as much as possible
Try relaxation techniques like breathing exercises

Special Diet or Considerations

No special diet is required, but healthy eating helps.
Avoid too much caffeine or sugar.
Some people feel better when they avoid certain foods like gluten or dairy.
Drink plenty of water.

Risks or Special Precautions

Risk of falls due to dizziness or poor balance
Risk of depression or anxiety
Risk of missing work or isolating from others
Talk to your doctor before starting new medications or exercises

When to Call Home Health Nurse or Doctor

Call your home health nurse or doctor if:

Pain gets worse or spreads
You feel very sad, anxious, or hopeless
You have trouble sleeping for several days
Your medicines are not helping or are causing side effects

When to Call 911 or Go to the Emergency Room

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you:

Have chest pain or trouble breathing
Feel confused or pass out
Have signs of a stroke (sudden numbness, slurred speech)

📝 Patient Homework / Assessment: Fibromyalgia

Instructions: Please read each statement below. Circle True or False. Correct all false statements.

True or False – Fibromyalgia causes pain all over the body.
True or False – Fibromyalgia can make you feel tired and foggy.
True or False – Fibromyalgia is a deadly disease.
True or False – Stress can make fibromyalgia worse.
True or False – There is a cure for fibromyalgia.
True or False – People with fibromyalgia may have trouble sleeping.
True or False – Light exercise can help reduce pain.
True or False – Eating healthy may help you feel better.
True or False – Depression is common in people with fibromyalgia.
True or False – Warm baths and heat can help with pain.
True or False – Staying in bed all day is the best way to feel better.
True or False – It’s okay to talk to your doctor about your feelings.
True or False – Brain fog means you may have trouble thinking clearly.
True or False – You should never exercise if you have fibromyalgia.
True or False – Calling your nurse is a good idea if your pain gets worse.
True or False – A healthy diet includes too much sugar and caffeine.
True or False – Fibromyalgia runs in some families.
True or False – Feeling numb or tingly can be a symptom of fibromyalgia.
True or False – You should call 911 if you have chest pain or pass out.
True or False – It’s important to manage stress to feel better.

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Symptom Identification:
“Are you having ongoing pain, tiredness, or problems with sleep that make you feel unwell most days?”

Activity Impact / Safety:
“Do your pain or fatigue limit your ability to do daily activities safely, like walking, cooking, or driving?”

Treatment Adherence:
“Are you taking your medicines as prescribed and following your care plan, such as gentle exercise or relaxation techniques?”

Preventive Measures:
“Are you practicing healthy habits like stretching, getting regular sleep, and lowering stress to help prevent flare-ups?”