I have Fibro and need a doctor. Is a rheumatologist, a neurologist or
I don’t know how to find the right doctor to help me. I’ve had Fibro diagnosed by a nurse practitioner 4 years ago. She is treating me for something else and does not treat Fibro. I have increasing pain in my legs and hips. It is debilitating. Do I look for a rheumatologist, a neurologist or someone else. I should say that my fatigue is terrible and I am trying to live my life but the pain and fatigue are stopping me. Help! I need a doctor to help me with meds and coping.
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You need a Rheumatologist.
And don’t let anyone make you feel like your symptoms are not real, and all in your “head”.
If a doctor or nurse implies that and dismisses you, leave and find a new doc.
Fibromyalgia is an over reaction to pain by the brain. It is real.
If you are on Medicare, go on their site where you can find a doctor.
Wishing you the best.
Talk with the nurse practitioner that you have been going to.
Tell them you would like to see A Specialist about your fibromyalgia. If the person wants to know why be honest with them tell them they are doing a terrific job, but you want to talk to someone who knows about fibromyalgia or who is working with fibromyalgia.
When I came down with fibromyalgia, I was told I was faking it and lying because there is no such. That was over 30 years ago, and there was nothing to read upon for many. You are lucky because they have learned a lot in the interim
Good luck
it's the rheumatologist you want. They specialize in these areas. I've had mine for about 2 years but need a ride to go into Vancouver so am now going to try someone who is local. I do hope they are as good.
There still is so much they don’t know about fibromyalgia, including what causes it. I was diagnosed about 30 years ago when I was in my 30s and the doctor said, based on my symptoms, I probably have had it since I was about 19. Mine was brought on by injuries. I’m a bicycle rider.
I’ve found that doing my own research has helped me the most. Sadly, the only thing that alleviates all my pain is painkillers or illegal drugs, neither of which I want to take (anymore). I take ibuprofen, CBD (no THC), and use cold and warm/hot compresses as needed.
Swimming or soaking in a pool or hot tub/jacuzzi is very helpful. There is a great exercise where you get in the water to just below or at your breasts and walk the width of the pool, swinging your arms under water. Anything non-impact is good.
Good luck. I’ve not found a doctor since that first one 30+ years ago who knew much about it.
@1kay2, are you in the Portland Metro area? Check to see if you qualify for the TriMet Lift service. I use the paratransit in Seaside and it’s a godsend.
@hraka13 I encourage you to see a doctor. There are several meds for Fibromyalgia now that work well. They've found thru studies that opiates actually don't work for fibro. They used to prescribe them a lot! Best of luck!
I've been treated by both a pain specialist & a primary care Dr MD over 20+ yrs. There are a # of meds available for fibro now that help, it may take a bit to find the best 1 for you. A tens unit helps (it has pads that deliver electric currents to any area you want) & may be available with insurance, otherwise it's in stores. Best of luck to you!
@1kay2 Thank you. I will do tht.