How fibromyalgia is diagnosed

There is no single test that shows fibromyalgia. Instead, a doctor makes a diagnosis by listening to your symptoms, examining you, and ruling out other conditions.

Because many conditions share the same symptoms, it can take a while. Some people wait years for a diagnosis. Knowing what to expect can help.

What your GP will do

Your GP will usually:

1. Ask about your symptoms. Where is the pain? How long have you had it? How does it affect your sleep, energy, memory and daily life?
2. Examine you. They may press gently on different parts of your body.
3. Arrange blood tests to rule out other conditions.

Conditions your GP may want to rule out

Some conditions can cause similar symptoms, so your GP may check for:

• an underactive thyroid
• rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
• polymyalgia rheumatica (common in people over 50)
• low vitamin D or low iron (anaemia)
• multiple sclerosis (MS)
• ME, also called chronic fatigue syndrome

You can have fibromyalgia as well as another condition.

How a diagnosis is made

Doctors usually diagnose fibromyalgia when:

• you have had pain in many parts of your body for at least 3 months
• you also have symptoms like tiredness, poor sleep or problems with memory and thinking
• no other condition fully explains your symptoms

In the past, doctors counted "tender points" on the body. This is not usually needed now.

Under NICE guidance, fibromyalgia is one type of chronic primary pain. This means long-term pain that is a condition in its own right, rather than a sign of another illness.

Being referred to a specialist

Your GP may refer you to:

• a rheumatologist, a doctor who specialises in joints, muscles and bones
• a pain clinic or pain management service
• a neurologist, if you have symptoms that affect your nerves

Getting ready for your appointment

GP appointments are short, so it helps to prepare. Try to:

• keep a symptom diary for 2 to 4 weeks before, noting pain, sleep and energy each day
• write a list of your main symptoms, starting with the ones that bother you most
• note how symptoms affect your life, such as "I can no longer lift a full kettle" or "I have to sit down to get dressed"
• list any medicines you take, including ones you buy yourself
• take someone with you if you can, to help you remember what was said
• ask for a longer appointment if you have a lot to talk about

After a diagnosis

Getting a diagnosis can bring relief, but also worry. It is normal to have mixed feelings. Your GP should talk to you about treatment options and what you can do to help yourself.

Next, read about fibromyalgia treatment.