Understanding Fibromyalgias Chronic Influence

The challenges of getting-and treating-a fibromyalgia diagnosis.

0
Fibromyalgia, like many other rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, isnt a quick and easy diagnosis, according to Dr. Gota. It is difficult to diagnose a patient with fibromyalgia if symptoms have been ongoing for less than three months. In addition to its longer duration of symptoms, what differentiates fibromyalgia from other conditions is the character of pain it inflicts. According to Dr. Gota, it starts with achiness and stiffness in one area that eventually spreads to the whole body. For other patients, she says, fibromyalgia might start in the joints. Fibromyalgia patients are always tired and experience sleep difficulties; the vast majority wake up unrefreshed, explains Dr. Gota. Sometimes they feel like theyve been hit by a truck.
To continue reading this article or issue you must be a paid subscriber. Sign in

Subscribe to Arthritis Advisor

Get the next year of Arthritis Advisor for just $20. And access all of our online content - over 1,000 articles - free of charge.
Subscribe today and save 36%. It's like getting 4 months FREE!
Already Subscribed?
Click Here to Sign In | Forgot your password? | Activate Web Access