Fibromyalgia diagnosis involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, combining medical history, physical examination, and specific diagnostic criteria. Although there is no single definitive test for fibromyalgia, the diagnosis is made by excluding other possible causes of the person’s symptoms.
To diagnose fibromyalgia, the healthcare professional will typically:
Perform a Physical Exam: The doctor will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, assessing for signs of tenderness, pain, and stiffness in different areas of the body. They will also inquire about other symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances.
Take a Medical History: A detailed medical history will be taken, including an inquiry about the individual’s symptoms, past medical conditions, and relevant information.
Rule Out Other Conditions: To ensure an accurate diagnosis, the healthcare professional may conduct specific tests through the process of elimination to determine a person’s symptoms. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disease, and lupus will be carefully considered and, if necessary, excluded.