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<p>The Department has made no estimate of the number of fibromyalgia sufferers in
the United Kingdom. As the condition is poorly understood and there is not specific
diagnostic test, it is difficult to make a reliable estimate</p><p>Although there
is no cure for fibromyalgia, some treatments can ease symptoms and support improved
quality of life for patients. The treatments offered will depend on the severity of
a patient’s condition, but may include: pharmacological pain relief; physiotherapy;
dietary and exercise advice; counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy; and self-management
programmes which aim to give patients the skills and confidence to manage their conditions
more effectively. There are also a number of NHS Trusts that offer specialist fibromyalgia
clinics, such the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases in Bath, which patients
can access on referral from the clinician responsible for their care.</p><p>In each
of the last three years, the Department’s National Institute for Health Research has
spent £0.1 million on fibromyalgia research.</p><p> </p>
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