Chronic widespread pain in muscles, soft tissue and joints with fatigue is known as what?

• A. Fibula
• B. Fibromyalgia
• C. Edema
• D. Entropion

Answer: (B)

This question tests recognizing fibromyalgia, a syndrome defined by chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue and often sleep disturbances or cognitive difficulties. The pain spreads across multiple areas and persists for months, without being explained by inflammation or joint damage. A key feature is the abnormal processing of sensory signals in the nervous system, meaning the body experiences pain more intensely or for longer than typical after minor or no injury. People with this condition usually report unrefreshing sleep, morning stiffness, and mental fatigue or “brain fog,” which reinforces the fatigue aspect of the syndrome. Because it’s a functional pain condition rather than a structural problem, diagnosis relies on symptom patterns and duration rather than tests showing inflammation or structural damage. Management is multidisciplinary, focusing on activities like regular aerobic exercise, sleep improvement, and therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with medications that help pain and sleep when appropriate.

The other options don’t fit: a fibula is a bone in the leg; edema is swelling from fluid buildup; entropion is an eyelid turning inward. None describe a chronic pain syndrome with fatigue.