Fibromyalgia: A Commonly Misdiagnosed Condition

Fibromyalgia affects 3.7 million Americans and is characterized by general fatigue, sleep disturbances, musculoskeletal aches and pains and soft tissue tenderness.  Those with Fibromyalgia experience many different symptoms that come and go.  The cause of Fibromyalgia is still a mystery.

When someone suffers from this condition, everyday pain and discomfort are greater than in those without fibromyalgia. Even minor bumps and bruises can lead to severe pain.

Fibromyalgia is often diagnosed by a doctor examining 18 specific spots on the body known as "tender points." People with fibromyalgia are more sensitive and have more tenderness at these points.  When pain is found in at least 11 of the 18 points, a fibro diagnosis is often made.  However, it is not always so cut and dry.  The vagueness of the symptoms associated with this disorder make it easy to misdiagnose it as something else, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or thyroid dysfunction, to name a few.

Because of this, it's important to do some preparation for your appointment with a doctor.  You should be ready to clearly articulate any and all symptoms that you have been experiencing, when they started, whether they are on and off or continuous, whether you've been taking any medications, whether you have had any surgeries, if anything triggers your symptoms, whether your symptoms affect your feelings, etc.

Finding the right doctor is also very important.  According to Mary Rose, PsyD, a clinical psychologist and behavioral sleep specialist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, "It's important to find a doctor who cares about you--and wants to help you.  It's very common, physicians having very little time. Sometimes they don't really hear everything a patient says."

Fortunately, Dr. Neal Fanelli and his team at Allegheny Medical have created the "Fibromyalgia Flow" treatment protocol and can help you experience reduced pain and overall better health through their personalized Fibromyalgia treatment plans.  If you suffer from Fibromyalgia or related symptoms, schedule your complimentary consultation today by calling 412-494-4554.