Fibromyalgia is a complex chronic pain disorder that is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and multiple tender points. A diagnosis of fibromyalgia is typically confirmed by a combination of patient history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
When evaluating a patient for fibromyalgia, a healthcare provider may begin by taking a detailed medical history. This includes a description of the patient’s symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and tender points, as well as any other symptoms that may be associated with the disorder. The healthcare provider may also ask the patient questions about their lifestyle, such as how much sleep they get and how active they are.
Physical examination for fibromyalgia typically includes a tender point exam. During this exam, the healthcare provider will press on specific points on the patient’s body. If the patient feels pain in these areas, it may indicate the presence of fibromyalgia.
In some cases, laboratory tests may be used to confirm a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. Blood tests may be used to look for signs of inflammation, such as elevated levels of C-reactive protein or erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Other tests, such as an electroencephalogram (EEG) or imaging scans, may be used to rule out other possible causes of pain and fatigue.
In some cases, a diagnosis of fibromyalgia may be made without the use of laboratory tests. This is known as a clinical diagnosis and is based on the patient’s medical history and physical examination. To make a clinical diagnosis, the healthcare provider must be able to identify a pattern of symptoms that are consistent with fibromyalgia.
Overall, fibromyalgia is typically confirmed by a combination of patient history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. A healthcare provider may use one or more of these methods to make a diagnosis.
