Q. My sister went through a nightmare of doctor visits before she finally found out she has fibromyalgia. Why did it take so long for a correct diagnosis?

What your sister endured is common. It’s not easy to diagnose fibromyalgia with a laboratory test. Healthcare practitioners have to rely on symptoms to make a diagnosis.

Fibromyalgia symptoms vary. To complicate the diagnosis, fibromyalgia imitates rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus and other conditions.

Fibromyalgia is from the Latin term for fibrous tissue (fibro) and the Greek terms for muscle (myo) and pain (algia). Fibromyalgia is not a disease. It’s a syndrome, which is a group of symptoms without a single cause. It is characterized by widespread pain, tenderness and fatigue.

Other symptoms of fibromyalgia may include: cognitive difficulties (“fibro fog”); sleep disturbances, morning stiffness, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, painful menstrual periods, numbness or tingling of the extremities, restless legs syndrome, and sensitivity to heat, cold, noises and lights.

About five million in the United States have fibromyalgia. More than 80 percent of those diagnosed with fibromyalgia are women. Most are diagnosed during middle age.

While fibromyalgia is a chronic condition, it is not progressive. It is never fatal, and it will not cause damage to joints, muscles, or internal organs. In many, the condition improves.

The causes of fibromyalgia haven’t been found. There is speculation that the syndrome may be caused by trauma or repetitive injuries.

According to one theory, those with fibromyalgia may have genes that cause them to react strongly to stimuli that most would not perceive as painful.

The American College of Rheumatology has established criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia. The patient must have diffuse tenderness and a history of widespread pain lasting more than three months. Pain is considered to be widespread when it affects all four quadrants of the body.

Fibromyalgia can be difficult to treat. Treatment often requires a doctor, physical therapist and other healthcare professionals. There are clinics that specialize in fibromyalgia treatment.

Fibromyalgia can be treated with antidepressants, because antidepressants elevate the levels of chemicals in the brain that are associated not only with depression, but also with pain and fatigue. Increasing the levels of these chemicals can reduce pain in those who have fibromyalgia.

Those with fibromyalgia may benefit from a combination of physical and occupational therapy, from learning pain management and coping techniques, and from properly balancing rest and activity.

Some with fibromyalgia also report success with massage, movement therapies, chiropractic treatments and acupuncture.

There are steps you can take to minimize the effects of fibromyalgia.

Getting enough sleep, exercising and making changes at work can all help.

For example, some cut down the number of hours they work, switch to a less demanding job, or adapt a job. You can also change your work environment. An occupational therapist can help you design a more comfortable workstation.

Have a question? Email: fred@healthygeezer.com. Order “How To Be A Healthy Geezer,” 218-page compilation of columns: healthygeezer.com

All Rights Reserved &Copy; 2019 Fred Cicetti

The Times News, Inc., and affiliates (Lehigh Valley Press) do not endorse or recommend any medical products, processes, or services or provide medical advice. The views of the columnist and column do not necessarily state or reflect those of the Lehigh Valley Press. The article content is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have.