Diagnosing and Treating Fibromyalgia Online
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes musculoskeletal pain. The condition can be caused by physical trauma, such as, a surgery, infection, accident, or repetitive injuries, as well as psychological trauma. Fibromyalgia also runs in families and researchers are currently looking into whether fibromyalgia may be a result of certain genetic mutations.
Oftentimes, someone with fibromyalgia will see multiple doctors before receiving their diagnosis because, currently, there is no diagnostic test for fibromyalgia. Doctors will also have to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms before confirming the diagnosis.
Although there is no cure for fibromyalgia, doctors will recommend treatments to alleviate the symptoms including certain medications as well as lifestyle changes, like sleeping well, exercising often, and sticking to a healthy diet.
During a video consult on Amwell, one of our board-certified doctors will ask you a series of targeted questions to determine if your symptoms point to fibromyalgia. Then your physician will proceed to determine the best treatment plan for you. Your diagnosis will be based on the physical exam, duration, severity of symptoms and your medical history.
Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor will go over the risks and benefits of the various treatment plans. Treatment for fibromyalgia is different depending on the severity.
Options for treatment of fibromyalgia may include:
- Pain relievers
- Anti-depressants (Duloxetine and milnacipran)
- Anti-seizure drugs
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