GP is not listening.

[FedUpRedHead]

I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia for 5 years since I was 18. I have been having new symptoms that seem to be different to my previous fibromyalgia symptoms. I have received advice from lots of people and have been told that it sounds like arthritis or Ankylosing Spondylitis. I asked my GP about this and voiced my concerns. He refused to do an x-ray to investigate as I shouldn’t be exposed to radiation for no reason and then said “maybe all of this is in your head”

I’m worried we are missing something more serious. My pain is worse when not active and worst in the morning. My pain is mainly in my lower back and spreads to my bum but not down my leg. I have general pain everywhere and extreme fatigue. Any advice would be greatly appreciated don’t know where to turn.

[ITYFIALMCTT]

Have you investigated private imaging and testing as mentioned in previous responses to your previous posts?

Have you requested a referral to a specialist fibromyalgia service/clinic?

[arthritis_action Partner]

We are so sorry to hear your doctor is dismissing your pain FedUpRedHead - that sounds very frustrating. We do recommend you insist, and maybe call up the practice and ask to speak to another GP to see if someone else does listen to you.

There's also a lot of advice on coping with pain on our website, in our Resources section - though a diagnosis and medical input cannot be substituted: arthritisaction.org.uk/livi...

Finally, our AP service can help put people in touch with a network of our vetted physical therapists - perhaps as someone who hasn't yet received a diagnosis, you might benefit by calling up and having a chat with someone near your area, who might be aware of what services are available to you nearby? You can have a look and find their contact details here, without being a Member: arthritisaction.org.uk/find...

We hope you find these helpful.

All the best of luck and keep us posted on how you get on,

Despina

Arthritis Action's Commnications Officer

[_cherry_]

Hm, doesn't sound good. I have a similar problem with my GP here, and I can understand how annoying it is and it does worry you when suddenly you have new symptoms and doctors don't take them seriously. I am fortunate enough to be able to get a second opinion, and maybe if you can, you should do that as well. It's your right to get a second opinion, but I know that it's sometimes difficult to find that, depending on where you live.

All the best for you, hopefully you will feel better at some point and find an explanation for your symptoms.