Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

How Do I Know If I Have It?

Before fibromyalgia treatment can begin a doctor must diagnose the condition.

Experts think that fibromyalgia is underdiagnosed. It can be difficult to diagnose because many of its symptoms are the same as those of other conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, underactive thyroid, Lyme disease, lupus, and multiple chemical sensitivity. Fibromyalgia is usually diagnosed after other possible causes have been ruled out.

To diagnose fibromyalgia, your doctor will take a thorough history and do physical and neurological exams. He or she may order laboratory tests to rule out other conditions. They will also determine whether you have any tender points, the key distinguishing symptom of fibromyalgia. Some doctors use the American College of Rheumatology guidelines that require a minimum of 11 out of 18 tender points for a fibromyalgia diagnosis. Others believe that fewer than 11 tender points may indicate fibromyalgia, particularly if you also have severe fatigue and widespread pain that has lasted more than three months.

Because of the difficulty in diagnosing fibromyalgia, it is best to see a doctor who is knowledgeable about the condition, such as a rheumatologist. Diagnosis is important because the earlier fibromyalgia is detected, the sooner you can make lifestyle changes to reduce the symptoms.