Diagnosis begins by excluding other causes
Fibromyalgiais a difficult disorder to diagnose.
The only way to get a fibromyalgia diagnosis is to embark on a “diagnosis of exclusion.”
Only when these causes are excluded can a diagnosis of fibromyalgia be made.
© Verywell, 2018
The diagnosis is typically overseen by a medical specialist known as arheumatologistwho specializes in musculoskeletal diseases and autoimmune disorders.
Some neurologists and general practitioners may also have the experience to oversee the evaluation.
Depending on the range of symptoms you have (digestive, urinary, psychological, etc.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
), the list can become quite extensive.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
A score of 1 is registered for every “yes” you give.
The score is based purely on the severity of symptoms that have occurred within the past week.
The four symptoms evaluated in the criteria are:
The maximum score on the SS scale is 12.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, you and your healthcare provider can then begin exploringtreatment options.
Unfortunately, there are no blood tests that confirm a fibromyalgia diagnosis.
Imaging studies also typically appear normal in fibromyalgia.
Fibromyalgia is diagnosed based on symptoms and history, and after other conditions have been ruled out.
American College of Rheumatology.Fibromyalgia.
2014;9(2):e88740.
