Introduction:

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex disorder with significant impact on public health. Few studies have explored suffering in FM, since its approach focuses on pain management.

Objective:

To estimate the prevalence of suffering in patients with FM and its association with impact on quality of life, emotional distress, loneliness, vital stress and clinical and sociodemographic factors in a private healthcare institution in Medellín (Colombia).

Method:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in an institution specialized in chronic pain management. The degree of suffering (PRISM), level of pain (EVA), impact of FM (FIQR), loneliness (UCLA), anxiety and depression (HADS), stressful life events (CSV) and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were evaluated. An explanatory model was proposed using logistic regression.

Results:

55.5 % IC95 (50,0-61,1) presented intense suffering. An explanatory model was obtained, where impact, depression and analgesic intake were the most relevant factors in intense suffering.

Discussion:

Patients with FM manifest an important suffering that should be attended by health personnel. Although pain is a relevant element, there are other factors to which attention should be paid, such as the impact of the disease on the person and the associated depression.

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