Fibromyalgia is often puzzling for some medical professionals who are not familiar with it. So, who do sufferers turn to for a treatment?
As an ‘invisible illness’, Fibromyalgia is difficult to diagnose. The symptoms of Fibromyalgia overlap with many other chronic pain conditions, which is why receiving an official diagnosis is often problematic.
If you have Fibromyalgia, you will experience widespread pain. This may be felt throughout the entire body or could be worse in certain areas, such as the back or neck. The pain is likely to be prolonged and unpredictable; there will be times when it is more severe than ever before.
The discomfort caused by Fibromyalgia has been described as an ache, a burning feeling, or as a sharp, stabbing sensation. Most sufferers feel extremely sensitive to pain, so even the slightest bump can feel excruciating, and the intensity will last far longer than it would for a non-sufferer.
It is not uncommon for sufferers to experience the debilitating symptoms of Fibromyalgia for many months, sometimes even years, before they are formally diagnosed with the disorder. Sufferers will often find themselves visiting many medical specialists and still be no closer to knowing what exactly is causing their symptoms.
The main reason for the confusion and the misunderstanding is exactly that – confusion and misunderstanding. Many members of the medical profession openly admit to being baffled by this long-term complex condition.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of knowledgeable medical experts who can help diagnose Fibromyalgia and help to treat and control the pain. A GP will play an important role in caring for a person with Fibromyalgia. He or she can help to determine the best treatment plan, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Patients with Fibromyalgia often have other ailments too, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), headaches and jaw pain. A doctor will know how to deal with each of these or recommend another healthcare professional who can help.
As Fibromyalgia has numerous symptoms, no single treatment will work for all of them. This may lead to many medical professionals being involved in the care plan, including a:
- Rheumatologist: This is a specialist in musculoskeletal and autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis and gout. Although Fibromyalgia is not a form of arthritis and does not cause damage or inflammation to joints, muscles or other tissue, the symptoms are very similar.
- Neurologist: A neurologist treats diseases of the brain and central nervous system. Many, but not all, understand Fibromyalgia. The pain from Fibromyalgia is what typically prompts an appointment with a neurologist who can help prescribe the correct medication to control it.
- Psychologist: The distressing symptoms of Fibromyalgia and the feelings of isolation it can result in often lead to patients being referred to a psychologist who can help support with mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.
- Pain Management Specialist: The pain caused by Fibromyalgia can impact heavily on a person’s life. Patients may be referred to a specialist pain clinic where a team of physical and occupational health therapists, as well as specialist nurses, can help to treat overall symptoms.
Finding the right medical specialist who understands Fibromyalgia and knows how to treat individual cases can take time. There are an increasing number of experts who can offer the right care and support to help reduce pain, so do not be disheartened if you feel like there is currently no light at the end of the tunnel.
As experienced Fibromyalgia lawyers, we act on behalf of sufferers across England and Wales. If you now suffer with chronic pain as a result of an accident or trauma that was not your fault, then we can help you to claim compensation.
We understand that no amount of money will make your pain disappear. However, it can help you to live a more comfortable life alongside it.
If you would like to speak with a member of our approachable and friendly team about bringing a Fibromyalgia compensation claim, then call us on 0161 737 9248 or fill in our online contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.
We do not endorse any research, studies or sources mentioned within our blogs and comments. Furthermore, we do not endorse any medical advice provided, and would strongly recommend anyone seeking medical advice to contact their local healthcare provider.
