Other diagnoses?

My doctor tested me for several auto immune conditions (hashimotos and rheumatoid arthritis). Both tests were negative. At that point she diagnosed fibro. I worry sometimes maybe there should be more tested for. I worry that something might be missed. Should I be concerned? Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

Laurie

My neurologist in Dakota Dunes said that my symptoms matched 16 possibilities & then she started testing me. I had 14 negatives. The 15th had a $1500 copay (of which I could never afford) & even though she doubted that I had that, if it was, then all we could do was treat the symptoms anyway, for there was no cure (something genetic). It was not she, who could diagnose me w/fibro, it had to be a rhumatologist. Once I was diagnosed, the primary (primarily) & the psychiatrist are the ones who are helping me w/the Meds.

M

Hi Laurie, it is important to read up on Fibro and all of its' associated symptoms. If you are having concerns that your symptoms don't match then you should definitely talk with your doctor. One thing I do is ask my doctor to run basic labs every year so I can at least be assured they are still normal. I have had several abnormal lab results this year so I am following up with the MD in 6 months this time. Hugs!

I go back to the doctor next week for my first appt since the fibro diagnosis last month.

Hi Laurie,

My rheumatologist told me these autoimmune disorders can be difficult to diagnose with blood work. I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia 15 years ago, and just today with Sjogren Syndrome, which is another autoimmune. He took blood, but said it can come back false negative or positive. It is frustrating how difficult it is to get diagnosed. We have to go by symptoms. I have found the best thing for these illnesses is very low stress, sleep, and a healthy diet. Lots of luck to you.

Hi Laurie! I agree with you! Fibro’s symptoms mimic MANY other health/medical conditions! I’ve had it (and all the other ‘tag along’ conditions) since '92! The bad thing is how fibro has no definitive test, so I’m afraid it can be a catch-all diagnosis for doctors. If you’re comfortable w/ your doctor you could voice your concerns and request other test be done! My dr did so many tests on me when I was diagnosed that I was prodded from head to toe. Write down your thoughts & questions! Research on the internet your symptoms 1 at a time. Good luck hun! I wish you better days ahead! :slight_smile:

Good luck! Write down questions/concerns before you go. :slight_smile: Kathy



Laurie B said:

I go back to the doctor next week for my first appt since the fibro diagnosis last month.