“If you feel tired all the time & have muscle aches & pains, you might think you’re coming down with the flu or another illness. But if your symptoms have been persisting for weeks or months, & you also have insomnia, gastro intestinal distress, or cognitive issues such as “brain fog,” there is a possibility that you have fibromyalgia [1].” – This means that you should book an appointment with a Pain Specialist as soon as possible
So in a Nutshell, What is Fibromyalgia Exactly?
This condition has been shown to generate widespread chronic tenderness and pain. Indeed, as the American College of Rheumatology, note: “fibro (as many patients call it), is more common in women than in men and also common among people with arthritis or chronic pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or lupus. Fibromyalgia can occur at any age but most often first strikes in middle age”[1].
So What Actually Brings on Fibro?
While the precise cause of this condition is not yet fully understood, research has indicated that it is probably not attributable to physical muscle or joint disorder, systemic inflammation, or autoimmune disease [1].
The Complexities of Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
“Fibromyalgia is considered a ‘diagnosis of exclusion,’ which means that doctors first have to rule out other health problems” [1]
Unfortunately, a single test such as an X-ray, scan, or blood analysis, cannot be used to diagnose this disorder. “It can be a challenge for both the physician and patient. When you have a headache or a broken bone, you can point to the problem. With fibromyalgia, the symptoms can be somewhat vague [1].” – And that is why consulting an experienced Pain Specialist is the best option for 1: Obtaining an accurate diagnosis, and 2: Being given information about the best available treatments for your individual case. Once you have received a Fibromyalgia diagnosis, then you will be told all about the most suitable conventional and latest cutting-edge treatments, that you can embark on.
Before Your Appointment
Prior to your appointment, be it in-person, or online, you are advised to compile a daily ‘Pain Diary.’
This should list the times of day when you pain is at its worse, and when it ameliorates. Recording what you were doing at the time, is also important. This will be of great benefit to your Pain Consultant; moreover, once you start on a Personalised Treatment Plan, you will be able to compare your symptoms after certain treatment protocols.
Reference
[1]. Levey, D. K. (2018). ” Fibromyalgia Diagnosis: How Doctors Diagnose Fibromyalgia.” Creaky Joints.
https://creakyjoints.org/about-arthritis/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-overview/fibromyalgia-diagnosis/
