Diagnosis

[shassh]

Good afternoon

I just have a few things to ask about fibromyalgia as I am waiting to see a rheumatologist but not till September

. I have been unwell since January when my asthma became very difficult, at this time my GP was treating me for chest infections send asthma, I had never felt so ill, my GP sent me to the chest clinic at my local hospital and they decided it wasn't asthma but I did have problems, X-rays and a ct scan showed nothing. The doctor took me off prednisone which I had been on for a long time. I was in lots of pain all over in my joints had bad headaches and terrible fatigue. My mothers friend asked if my GP had mentioned Fibromyalgia and they hadn't so I said I would ask at my next appointment. Before my next appointment I had a fall and broke my wrist, I had fallen a couple of times before and have done since. I just seem to loose my balance and then I'm on the floor, it's a bit scared. On some days I feel generally ok, most days tho I struggle with walking, getting up off the sofa and even brushing my hair.

I really would like to know what to expect when I finally get my rheumatologist appointment. I understand it's difficult to diagnose and also I have to have a meeting with work about my absence and I really don't know what to say to them. I'm so fed up with feeling so unwell and I try and fiver how awful I feel from those around me as I don't want them getting fed up with me moaning and asking for so much help. Any advice would be appreciated. THanks for reading.

[YASMINTINA FMA UK Volunteer]

Although I have never been to rheumatologist for my diagnosis I’m hoping members will be of some help with their replies, it’s pretty rotten feeling unwell and trying to hold down a job as well, you could ring a couple of times and ask if any cancellations have come up, or could doctor push for a quicker appointment as you are really struggling with lots of things at the moment . I have also been diagnosed with cfs that has a lot of similar symtoms to the fibro ,doctor has said I have both. Il also post this link that might be helpful for future posts healthunlocked.com/fibromya... x

[Sandcastle27]

Hi, your rheumatologist will do some blood tests to look for other possible causes including autoimmune conditions, and will also ask you questions about your pain, and how you manage with daily activities. This will help them narrow things down so tell them as much as possible. There's no test for fibro so your answers will help them in conjunction with whatever comes back from the blood tests. I hope they can work out what's wrong. Good luck 😊

[Hidden]

Make sure your B12, ferritin and folate levels are checked. The symptoms of iron anaemia and/or B12 deficiency can overlap those of fibro. You need a really good level of folate to make B12 absorb properly.

The rheumatologist should order a whole raft of blood tests so ask for a copy to be sent to you ( you're entitled)

[shassh]

Thanks for all this advise I really appreciate you all taking time to reply.

[ailsamary]

With regard to your work I would tell them that you are waiting for a diagnosis, but because of the length of time your symptoms have gone on for you believe that it will be classed as a disability. However until you get the diagnosis you would find it hard to suggest any adaptations that would help you at work.

Allow them to make suggestions and be positive about any , except if they suggest lowering your hours. (Unless you want to).

I would read their disability policy and sickness policy before the meeting and be able to point out any sickness you believe to be disability related. Also have a definition of disability handy in case they try to fob you off.v