Opinion
Video
Challenges for Patients With Fibromyalgia
Author(s):
Philip J. Mease, MD, comments on the importance of education about fibromyalgia, especially regarding the stigma and the psychological impact of the disease.
This is a video synopsis/summary of a panel discussion involving Philip J. Mease, MD.
Patients with fibromyalgia face significant challenges and unmet needs, including a crucial need for education. This encompasses educating patients, their families, friends, and clinicians to overcome the stigma associated with this condition, analogous to historical perceptions of depression or anxiety. A key aspect is fostering open discussions about fibromyalgia, promoting understanding, and addressing it with multimodal approaches. Access to medical caretakers is hindered by biases, with some physicians reluctant to manage patients with fibromyalgia due to perceived emotional needs and time demands. This attitude poses a significant problem, considering the array of effective approaches available for fibromyalgia management. The multimodal nature of fibromyalgia management involves education, nonpharmacologic interventions such as psychological counseling, meditation, and mindfulness, and the inclusion of friends and family in supporting and understanding the individual's challenges. Overcoming these obstacles is vital for comprehensive fibromyalgia care.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by HCPLive editorial staff.
