Widespread pain: how can the FiRST questionnaire prepare a consultation?

Pain affecting several parts of the body can change in location and intensity. Describe when it began and how it has changed to your doctor. Duration informs the assessment; it is not a reason to delay seeking advice.

Fatigue, unrefreshing sleep and concentration difficulties can accompany widespread pain. Prepare examples of their effect on activities, work or relationships, without deciding the cause yourself.

The FiRST questionnaire is intended for chronic joint, muscle or tendon pain lasting at least three months. It has six yes-or-no questions about symptoms and their impact. Use the official document linked in the sources, answer from your experience and bring it to your usual doctor.

FiRST is a screening tool. The doctor considers your account, the answers and a physical examination to assess the situation. A completed questionnaire cannot establish fibromyalgia on its own.

There is no blood or imaging test that establishes fibromyalgia. Examinations can nevertheless investigate another condition with similar symptoms. Ask which question each examination addresses rather than requesting one definitive fibromyalgia test.

If fibromyalgia is diagnosed, the doctor coordinates follow-up with you. Prepare later discussions by describing changes in symptoms, independence and quality of life. These observations help adapt care to your situation.