According to the National Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Association, it takes an average of 5 years for a patient with fibromyalgia to get a proper diagnosis.
For many, getting a diagnosis of fibromyalgia means that they are finally able to put a name to symptoms they have had for years without a clear indication of what was causing them.
Diagnosing someone with fibromyalgia is not easy or clear cut. There are no lab or imaging tests that can be run to diagnose someone with fibromyalgia. Doctors typically make a diagnosis based on medical history and the criteria for diagnosing fibromyalgia that is outlined below.
A patient will generally be diagnosed with fibromyalgia if they meet all 3 of the following conditions:
1. Their Widespread Pain Index (WPI) score and Symptom Severity (SS) score meets established thresholds.
2. Symptoms have been present at a similar level for at least 3 months.
3. The patient doesn’t have a disorder that would otherwise explain the pain.
NEXT: Calculate your Widespread Pain Index (WPI) score
This survey is not meant to substitute for a diagnosis by a medical professional. Patients should not diagnose themselves. Patients should always consult their medical professional for advice and treatment. This survey is intended to give you insight into research on the diagnostic criteria and measurement of symptom severity for fibromyalgia.