what should i ask my doctor about fibromyalgia

How do you prove you have fibromyalgia?

There's no single test (such as a blood test or an imaging test like an X-ray) that can confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Rather, fibromyalgia is considered a “diagnosis of exclusion,” which means that doctors first have to rule out other health problems.

What test do doctors do for fibromyalgia?

The FM/a Test is a blood test used for the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. It is available for use in patients of any age who have at least four of the typical symptoms of fibromyalgia.

What are the trigger points for fibromyalgia?

The trigger point locations are:Front lower sides of your neck.Upper chest.Inner elbows.Just above inner knees.Back of your head.Top of the shoulders.Upper back (at shoulder blades)Upper buttock.More items...•

What will a rheumatologist do for fibromyalgia?

Because fibromyalgia is complex in nature and difficult to diagnose, a rheumatologist will perform a complete medical history and a full physical exam. A physical exam can help reveal signs of inflammation throughout the body's joints and musculoskeletal system.

Does fibromyalgia qualify for disability?

The Social Security Administration recognizes arthritis and fibromyalgia (FM) as qualifying disabilities for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI).

Can a doctor prove you have fibromyalgia?

Diagnosing fibromyalgia can be difficult as there's no specific test to diagnose the condition. The symptoms of fibromyalgia can also vary from person to person and are similar to those of several other conditions. The GP will ask you how your symptoms are affecting your daily life.

What hurts the most with fibromyalgia?

If you have fibromyalgia, one of the main symptoms is likely to be widespread pain. This may be felt throughout your body, but could be worse in particular areas, such as your back or neck. The pain is likely to be continuous, although it may be better or more severe at different times.

What should I not do with fibromyalgia?

Avoid Simple Carbs, Whole Wheat & Whole Grains Fibromyalgia patients often experience general hypersensitivity which translates into increased sensitivity to blood-sugar highs and lows. Avoid simple carbs like white sugar, white flour, and even wheat if possible.

What is the best thing to help fibromyalgia?

Self-care is critical in the management of fibromyalgia.Stress management. Develop a plan to avoid or limit overexertion and emotional stress. ... Sleep hygiene. ... Exercise regularly. ... Pace yourself. ... Maintain a healthy lifestyle.

What is the newest treatment for fibromyalgia?

Specifically, laser photo-biomodulation therapy has reportedly been effective in the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms. Evidence suggests the benefits of laser therapy in female fibromyalgia patients. The treatment was designed to improve patients' pain outcomes and upper body range of motion.

Does fibromyalgia affect your eyesight?

Fibromyalgia can be associated with ocular symptoms (foreign body sensation, irritation) and visual disturbances (blurred vision), coexisting with dry eye syndrome and reduced corneal sensitivity.

What can a neurologist do for fibromyalgia?

The pain from fibromyalgia is what typically prompts people to visit a neurologist, and this specialist may prescribe medications to control your pain. Pain Management doctors treats all forms of pain, including that caused by fibromyalgia.

What is the 18 point test for fibromyalgia?

In the past, one way that doctors tried to narrow down a diagnosis of fibromyalgia was by exerting pressure on 18 small spots located throughout the body to elicit the sensations of tenderness and pain. These spots are known as tender points.

What are the 2 most common symptoms of fibromyalgia?

The primary symptoms of fibromyalgia include:Widespread pain. The pain associated with fibromyalgia often is described as a constant dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. ... Fatigue. ... Cognitive difficulties.

What are usually the first signs of fibromyalgia?

What are the signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia?Pain and stiffness all over the body.Fatigue and tiredness.Depression and anxiety.Sleep problems.Problems with thinking, memory, and concentration.Headaches, including migraines.

Does fibromyalgia show up on MRI?

An MRI may be able to detect brain activity connected to fibromyalgia pain. For patients dealing with fibromyalgia, the widespread musculoskeletal pain they feel is made worse by the frustration and misunderstanding that usually accompanies the disorder.

What types of exercise can help to minimize my fibromyalgia symptoms?

What types of exercise can help to minimize my fibromyalgia symptoms? Inquire about activities such as stretching and aerobics that can help you ease common fibromyalgia symptoms like fatigue and muscle weakness and twitching. You should also inquire about how your daily activities will change.

Why is it important to ask your doctor about fibromyalgia?

In addition, because each fibromyalgia patient has a unique medical history, asking questions helps to ensure you receive the treatment that is right for you.

What are some alternative treatments for fibromyalgia?

Are there alternative fibromyalgia therapies that you can recommend? Find out about alternative treatment options, such as biofeedback and acupuncture, that can complement your fibromyalgia medical treatment.

Why me?

However, it’s theorized that your fibromyalgia may develop from repeated nerve stimulation that increases pain-signaling chemicals in your brain.

Will my pain go away?

Fibromyalgia is a multifaceted pain condition that affects your physical and emotional well-being. We have helped many people with fibromyalgia get long-term relief from their discomfort by taking a holistic approach to treatment, focusing on the health of your whole body, not just your pain.

Are you sure there is nothing else?

The general protocol for diagnosing fibro is to rule out other autoimmune diseases like lupus and arthritis. Autoimmune disorders and metabolic disorders like thyroid disease often have the same symptoms and one can easily be mistaken for the other. Because there is no clear and concise test for fibro, any other condition that could mask itself as fibro must be crossed off before fibro is actually declared the culprit.

What does this mean for the long term?

While an early diagnosis of any kind of disease is always better, it’s not always the case. This is especially true when trying to get a diagnosis on a disorder as mysterious as fibro. What does getting a positive diagnosis mean for you? Asking this question and getting the right answer from your doctor will help you learn what you need to know to self-manage the disease as part of your everyday life.

What if the medication doesn’t help?

If medications don’t help ease the symptoms, especially when they are paired with non-traditional treatment options, it’s okay to expect doctors to explore other medications, such as “off-label” medication.

What changes do I need to make to my life?

Relying solely on medication is not the answer. Despite the pain, the patient should exercise, and find therapies that complement their prescription. Yoga, Pilates and other low impact workouts are the best options.

What about flare-ups?

To help you learn to manage flare-ups, doctors should be telling their patients that the first step is to learn to understand what causes them, which means paying attention to what happens before a flare-up. Eventually, a pattern will emerge and it will be easier to avoid those triggers.

Where do I go to get support?

Doctors should be able to direct patients and help them access the support they need to live with fibro. If a patient is having a hard time explaining their disorder to family and friends, their doctor should invite them to join in on appointments. This will help patients begin finding their support system.

How long does it take to get fibromyalgia?

Getting a diagnosis of fibromyalgia is not easy. It can take months, and for some even years. For many patients who finally have an answer to their mysterious symptoms, it's a huge relief.

What should patients understand about treating fibromyalgia?

But you’re likely to have a better relationship if your doctor has a good understanding of fibromyalgia and is comfortable treating it.

How can I improve communication with my doctor?

But be sure to leave a number where you can be reached and what time is best to reach you. This will limit the time that you spend playing “phone tag” and help ensure you get a prompt response.

What are the treatments you've tried?

Other types of treatments or therapies you’ve tried, such as yoga, acupuncture, or massage, and if they helped. Your current symptoms and concerns.

How to treat fibromyalgia?

Hassett: Treating fibromyalgia can sometimes mean a lot of work for the patient. Your doctor may suggest that you lose weight, get exercise, or change sleep patterns. Making these types of lifestyle changes can be difficult, so it’s helpful if you and your doctor set goals together and work closely as a team.

Is it good to keep a diary?

Corleone: It’s good idea to keep a diary or journal so you can keep track of your day-to-day symptoms. That way, you can answer any questions your doctor may have, such as how long the symptom has been happening or what makes it feel better or worse.

Can a spouse describe sleep?

A spouse may be able to describe certain symptoms better than you, such as disturbed sleep. It can also be helpful to have that person take notes or ask questions if you forget. If you can’t bring anyone, using a tape recorder can be a good way to record everything your doctor tells you.

Is it important to be your own advocate?

Corleone: As a patient, it’s really important to be your own advocate. Learn all you can about the illness, and find a doctor who is familiar with treating fibromyalgia. Getting the right treatment can be a long process, but with patience and support, it is possible to feel better.

How to diagnose fibromyalgia?

Diagnosis of fibromyalgia isn’t a simple matter. Your doctor will ask about your medical history and your symptoms. They may ask you to measure your pain on a scale. They may use what’s called a tender point test, which measures your sensitivity to pain by applying pressure to 18 specific sites throughout the body. Be sure to tell your doctor: 1 what your symptoms are 2 how long you’ve had symptoms 3 if the pain is throbbing, piercing, or shooting 4 where the symptoms are the worst 5 what aggravates or soothes your symptoms 6 if you’re getting enough sleep 7 if you’ve experienced any recent physical or emotional trauma

What kind of therapy is best for fibromyalgia?

Both psychologists and psychiatrists can provide counseling and other forms of therapy that are useful for fibromyalgia. Cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, helps those with depression by challenging the negative self-talk that can worsen your mood.

What does a rheumatologist do?

Your rheumatologist will perform initial and follow-up tests and monitor how well treatment is working. They’ll also prescribe and adjust medications when necessary.

What is a tender point test?

They may use what’s called a tender point test, which measures your sensitivity to pain by applying pressure to 18 specific sites throughout the body. Be sure to tell your doctor: Your doctor may be able to diagnose fibromyalgia or may refer you to a specialist for further exams and treatment.

What is the name of the doctor who treats fibromyalgia?

Rheumatologists. A rheumatologist is a doctor with special training in treating diseases of the muscles, joints, and connective tissues. These include: rheumatoid arthritis. osteoarthritis. lupus. fibromyalgia. They’ll most likely be your main doctor during the treatment of your disorder.

What does a physical therapist do?

Physical and occupational therapists help people strengthen muscles and joints. This can help you perform everyday activities better. They also help find ways to go about daily life with less pain. They can help you be more active and create effective exercise programs.

How many doctors do you see for fibromyalgia?

People with fibromyalgia see many medical professionals. You may see as many as four or five providers in a single month depending on your: