How Much Do You Know About Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia affects approximately 5 million Americans. Women of childbearing age are most likely to suffer from fibromyalgia, but it can affect men, children, and older women, as well. Test your knowledge of fibromyalgia by taking the following quiz.

1. What is fibromyalgia?

A. Small tumors in muscle tissue B. A collection of painful symptoms, not a disease C. Excess growth of fibrous tissue D. Tendon inflammation

2. What are some of the symptoms?

A. Pain in 11 of 18 trigger points B. Intolerance of cold C. Irritable bowel syndrome D. All of the above

3. How does fibromyalgia affect people?

A. It's chronic B. It's permanently disabling C. It worsens with age D. All of the above

4. What causes the condition?

A. Environmental pollutants B. Stress C. Genetics D. The cause is unknown

5. Sleep disturbance is a key aspect of fibromyalgia. What do sufferers experience?

A. Too much sleep B. They sleep adequate hours but wake unrefreshed C. They have trouble falling and staying asleep D. B and C

6. Other conditions can mimic fibromyalgia. Which of these must doctors rule out to diagnose it?

A. Rheumatoid arthritis B. Chronic fatigue syndrome C. Lupus D. All of the above

7. Which of these medical specialists may be the most knowledgeable in recognizing and diagnosing fibromyalgia?

A. Osteopaths B. Rheumatologists C. Physiatrists D. B and C

8. Which of these is most likely to be beneficial for fibromyalgia?

A. Hot baths B. Dietary changes C. Regular exercise D. All of the above