How to Talk With Physicians About Fibromyalgia

Talking to your doctor about fibromyalgia is the first step in getting the proper treatment. Physicians are beginning to treat this illness as a justifiable disease. However, before going to your doctor about your fibromaylgia, it is best to be equipped with how to talk to him. This will ensure the best treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• List of questions
• Symptom list

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Instructions

• 1

  Finding the proper doctor is the first step. While a family doctor can recognize the symptoms of fibromyalgia, it is best to get a referral to a specialist. A rheumatologist would be the first choice. Also, there are doctors who specialize in chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. These doctors would be best able to discuss and treat your illness.

• 2

  Bring a list of symptoms with you to the appointment. The doctor will ask for your specific symptoms that might lead to a diagnosis of fibromyalgia or support his findings. Remember to keep the list specific to fibromyalgia. Adding other non-related symptoms will complicate the diagnosis of fibromyalgia and may lead the doctor to think you are a complainer. You want the doctor to take your symptoms seriously.

• 3

  Write down a list of questions beforehand. Often patients think of questions after the appointment. By writing down important questions, you will have all of your issues answered. This will help the doctor deal with your fibromyalgia up front, rather than calling back later with questions that were forgotten.

• 4

  Remember that you and the doctor are partners in your treatment of fibromyalgia. Come to the appointment prepared to accept his treatment plan. It is important to try everything that the doctor suggests including treatments, change in lifestyle and medications. This will show the doctor that you are willing to work with him in your treatment.

• 5

  Bring a person with you to the appointment. Many fibromyalgia patients find that they have a hard time remembering things. An added person will be able to help you remember what the doctor has prescribed. In addition, this person might be able to add information about your illness that you had forgotten.