Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 July 2015
66. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Health his views on increasing awareness of fibromyalgia among medical professionals; the measures his Department is taking to provides supports to fibromyalgia sufferers and research into the condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27664/15]
View answerFibromyalgia is a medical disorder which causes chronic pain in addition to other symptoms such as fatigue and reduced physical function. The medical management of fibromyalgia relates to careful management of the symptoms including pain control. Patients with fibromyalgia can avail of a variety of treatments and support in the primary care and hospital settings. These can include patient education, exercise, cognitive – behavioural therapy as well as medication.
The issue of increasing awareness of the condition among medical professionals has been brought to the attention of the National Clinical Programme for Rheumatology. The programme advised that it is estimated that in region of 30% of the referrals to rheumatology services in the hospital setting are related to fibromyalgia.
The National Clinical Programme has no specific fibromyalgia study planned however, healthcare professionals can apply to the Health Research Board for research funding into fibromyalgia.
