Diagnosis.

[NannyDot]

I am new to this. I have been suffering with different things from 2011 when my mum passed away. I thought I was going out of my mind until my friend mentioned fibromyalgia. I looked it up and it was like different ligsaw pieces coming together. Now, how do I go about having an official diagnosis?

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

Hi and a warm welcome to our community. You can read more general information on fibromyalgia on our main website fmauk.org

Regarding diagnosis, your gp should eliminate other potential causes of your symptoms. This usually involves blood tests, sometimes x-rays, scans etc. If all tests come back normal and your health history fits the criteria for fibro, then that is when a diagnosis is normally made.

It can be frustrating when getting tested for everything and then getting told they are all clear xxx

[Midori]

Getting a diagnosis takes time, persistence, and endless patience, I have found, and I had to suggest Fibro to my GP as a possibility before he started with the tests.

I was referred to a Rheumatologist, who confirmed it, although knowledgeable GPs can also diagnose it.

Some GPs still don't accept the validity of Fibro even now, but the younger ones are more up to date, in the main, I find.

Cheers, Midori

[Blue1927]

Hi, i’m sorry to hear of your Mum and the difficulties you had had since. I too think my fibro came on when my Mum also passed away. I was referred to a Rheumatologist by my Doctor, who suspected I had Fibromyalgia and it was then confirmed. Since, I have been referred to Physio and a Functional Conditional Programme under the NHS.

Worth speaking to your Doctor first and mentioning the fact that you may have Fibro, hopefully they will refer you to a Rheumatologist. Good luck 🤗

[NannyDot]

Thank you! I appreciate your quick response.