Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire

FIBROMYALGIA IMPACT QUESTIONNAIRE (FIQ)
Developed by:

Burckhardt CS, Clark SR, Bennett RM at Oregon Health & Science University

Objective:

To capture the total spectrum of problems related to fibromyalgia and the responses to therapy

Fibromyalgia Causes

The cause of fibromyalgia is currently unknown. However, several hypotheses have been developed.

Genetic predisposition

There is evidence that genetic factors may play a role in the development of fibromyalgia. For example, there is a high aggregation of fibromyalgia in families. The mode of inheritance is currently unknown, but it is most probably polygenic. Research has demonstrated that fibromyalgia is associated with polymorphisms of genes in the serotoninergic, dopaminergic and catecholaminergic systems. However, these polymorphisms are not specific for fibromyalgia and are associated with a variety of allied disorders (e.g. chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome) and with depression.

Brain Fog

Cognitive dysfunction (or brain fog) is defined as unusually poor mental function, associated with confusion, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating. A number of medical or psychiatric conditions and treatments can cause such symptoms, including Heavy metal poisoning (in particular mercury poisoning), menopause, fibromyalgia and sleep disorders (including disrupted sleep). The term brain fog is not commonly used to describe people with dementia or other conditions that are known to cause confusion and memory problems, but it can be used as a synonym for sleep inertia or grogginess upon being awakened from deep sleep.