Doctors appointment

Hi all I am new to this site but am glad I've found you. 2 years ago my doctor decided that I had polymyalgia rheumatica I was immediately put on steroids felt slightly better but then other problems started weight gain etc so 1 month ago after tapering I have come off steroids. Dr referred me to a rheumatologist, 6 months ago still waiting so I decided to look into my symptoms and found out about fibromyalgia (had mentioned this pre pmr diagnosis) anyway I realised that I have roughly 85% of the symptoms, so with symptoms printed out and highlighting the ones that effect me I talked to my doctor only to be told they only diagnose fibromyalgia when all other reasons are counted out. Is this right? She did however give me a prescription for amitriptyline. Sorry this is long post but would be grateful for your thoughts. Thanks Sue

[lou60]

Hello Susie, in answer to your question it is true that a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia is usually made after other illnesses are ruled out, Fibromyalgia shares many of its symptoms with other illnesses so this process of elimination can take some time, I do hope this helps a little. Lou x

[TheAuthor]

Hi susie901

I sincerely hope that you are feeling well today? Welcome to the forum and it is wonderful to make your acquaintance. I genuinely hope that you find the forum useful, informative and loads of fun!

As lou60 says, it does tend to be this way. I was personally diagnosed after extensive testing for other illnesses. I genuinely hope that you can find the answers that you so desperately desire and deserve.

All my hopes and dreams for you

Ken x

[Mdaisy]

Hello Susie901,

Welcome to the community !

I do hope you find it beneficial as others seem to, as many members report it to be supportive & informative.

You mention Fibro & it's diagnosis, please can I provide you with a link to our FAQ section which answers the following question using many relevant links from our mother site fibroaction.org , 'I have symptoms of Fibro, how is it diagnosed?'

healthunlocked.com/fibroact...

FibroAction is a UK charity who are raising awareness making up-to-date, reputable and evidence-based information about Fibro more readily accessible & this is at the heart of what it we do. FibroAction is one of a number of organisations that have the Information Standard Certificate to ensure that the information we produce is clear, accurate, balanced, evidence-based and up-to-date.

Amitriptyline is used in the treatment of Fibro, please see Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) in the following link;

fibroaction-public.sharepoi...

Hope this helps

Best Wishes

Emma

FibroAction Administrator

[lilian68]

hi susie,isaw a very good rheumatologist after examination diagnosed me with fibromyalgia,hypermobility,chronic pain syndrome & cervical spondylosis at that one visit.best wishes lilian

[Hidden]

Thanks for all your comments I just wonder how they can rule out everything else when I'm not being tested for anything else unless it's all down to the rheumatologist. Thanks again Sue

[Mdaisy in reply to Hidden]

Hello Susie,

My Fibro was diagnosed on a second opinion by a Rheumatologist after a series of tests, scans & MRI's including a Nuclear Medicine Bone Scan. I expect your Rheumatologist once you are referred will explain the plan of action and the links I have given you should provide further information.

All the best

Emma

FibroAction Administrator