Evaluation of the physical and emotional effects of the earthquake in fibromyalgia patients

Authors : Hatice Zehra Ferhatlar, Mustafa Tuna, Esma Demirhan

Pages : 174-179

Doi:10.32322/jhsm.1589687

View : 33 | Download : 34

Publication Date : 2025-03-21

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Aims: Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a soft tissue disease characterized by widespread pain and tenderness. Poor living conditions and stress can cause the symptoms of the disease to aggravate. Natural disasters such as earthquakes can also increase the severity of symptoms such as pain and sleep disturbance in fibromyalgia patients by creating physical and psychological stress. In this study, we aimed to show the physical and psychological effects of the earthquake on fibromyalgia patients. Methods: Our study is of prospective type and was conducted between 01.09.2023 and 01.11.2023. 59 earthquake victims and 50 non-earthquake victims FMS patients diagnosed with FMS according to the ACR2016 diagnostic criteria were included. All patients filled out four forms: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) showing psychological states, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) showing physical states, EuroQol Group (EQ5D3L) general quality of life scale showing quality of life, EQ5D3L-VAS scale showing pain conditions and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index showing sleep quality. Results: ASD, FIQ, EQ5D3L, EQ5D3L-VAS and Pittsburg scores of fibromyalgia patients who were earthquake victims were statistically significantly higher than FMS patients who were non earthquake victims (respectively p=0.008, p<0.001, p=0.008, p=0.008, p=0.008). Conclusion: It is known that the risk of developing chronic pain syndromes and psychological distress increases after unexpected natural disasters such as earthquakes. In this study, we showed that the earthquake negatively affected pain, fatigue, sleep and quality of life in fibromyalgia patients. Thus, we tried to draw attention to the importance of appropriate screening, management, emotional support and mental health services for post-earthquake fibromyalgia patients.
Keywords : Fibromiyalji, ağrı, doğal afet, deprem