Fibromyalgia - What tests are appropriate

Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi there doctor, my name is Emma, Could you help me? What can I do for a testing for Fibromyalgia? My doctor wont send me for one he says its all in my head

Dear Emma: Fibromyalgia is a neurosensory disorder in which there is a defect in the processing of pain signals by the central nervous system. Fibromyalgia is characterised by widespread pain, stiffness, generalised weakness, fatigue, decreased sleep, anxiety that effect a person's day to day activity.

I can understand your desire to seek a solution to your symptoms. Very little is understood about fibromyalgia and many doctors often dismiss it as a psychological disorder. Similar symptoms of fibromyalgia may also be present in systemic inflammatory disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and SLE.

Management of fibromyalgia begins with a detailed history and a thorough physical examination. Making a correct diagnosis is crucial. It is important for a thorough physical examination and bloodwork to determine the cause of pain. Bloodwork for complete blood count, ESR, creatinine phosphokinase, rheumatoid factor, ANA and thyroid hormones may be helpful in determining a underlying cause.

There is no cure for fibromyalgia. Treatment includes medical therapy, physical and psychological therapy, and preventive measures like proper rest, sleep and exercise.