What A Newly Diagnosed Fibromyalgia Patient Can Expect

When an individual first receives a diagnosis especially one that is long-term or chronic they want to know what to expect next? What now, that I have this condition? How will my life be impacted by this diagnosis? Questions revolving around the degree of pain to expect, or what new symptoms may occur are all normal questions for the newly diagnosed patient to be asking of any condition or disease.

Unfortunately there are no pat answers because fibromyalgia is a very unique condition in that there is no one set of symptoms that everyone with fibromyalgia will experience. The condition although similar to all those who have it can be very different regarding the manifestation of symptoms. Because of this, the treatment plan is tailored specifically to you and may look different from another person who also has fibromyalgia. Age, general health, and other factors will impact how the condition will affect your life.

You can expect that your doctor and other medical team members will treat you with respect and do all they can to put you at ease and to explain about fibromyalgia and connect you to a network of support that may include a fibromyalgia support group in your area.

You may notice that there are days when you symptoms are milder than other days and that you are starting to realize that there may be triggers for your symptoms (things or events that can increase the likelihood of experiencing symptoms) such as overexerting yourself physically, drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco products, and not getting enough sleep.

Your healthcare provider should provide you with a list of conditions to watch out for and will tell you to inform them if your symptoms become worse. Communicating with your healthcare provider and any other medical team members that are involved in your care if very important. Make a point right from the start to always keep your medical team informed of how you are feeling physically, emotionally and mentally. These things can impact the quality of care you receive and the ability of your treatment plan to meet your needs.

You can expect to have regularly scheduled visits with your primary care physician as well as other medical team members such as the dentist, or a registered dietician, a neurologist or rheumatologist and other therapists.

You can expect to try different treatments and methods before finding a combination that is right for you and a treatment plan that brings you the most relief from your symptoms. Don't be afraid to try new things or to ask your medial team about new advances in the treatment of fibromyalgia.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to make comments of those who are caring for your fibromyalgia needs. This is your body and your life, expect the best, demand the best and give your best effort when it comes to managing your condition.