Fibromyalgia Diagnosis: Understanding the Process & What to Expect

Diagnosing fibromyalgia is difficult because there is no specific test for it, I will share with you what is traditionally done to diagnose this condition.

Things You'll Need

• A good doctor
• Patience

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Instructions

• 1

  A diagnosis may take 2-5 years because few medical practitioners understand this debilitating condition. Most doctors will treat symptoms if they don't know what is going on, if it hurts they will prescribe a painkiller. If your back hurts, they will X-ray it and tell you there is nothing wrong.
  This is very frustrating.

• 2

  Chronic pain will continue over a long period of time, the only way and the best way to diagnose is by process of elimination testing. Your doctor can run blood test for other conditions such thyroid, diabetes, lupus or multiple sclerosis.

• 3

  To be diagnosed with fibromyalgia you must have experienced widespread aching pain for at least three months and have a minimum of 11 locations on your body that are abnormally tender under relatively mild, firm pressure.

• 4

  Some of the symptoms include: widespread pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances, Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Headaches and facial pain, Heightened sensitivity, depression, tingling or numbness, unable to concentrate, mood swings, chest pain, dry eyes skin and mouth, painful menstruation, dizziness and anxiety.

• 5

  Seek a doctor in your area who has experience in fibromyalgia treatment to consult for an accurate diagnosis. There are various treatments that will work better for some than others and there are medicines available to help reduce the pain and sensitivity of this condition.