That frustration is completely valid, and you are definitely not alone in feeling this way. Many MyFibroTeam members share the same sense of doubt and dissatisfaction after receiving a fibromyalgia diagnosis.
The reality is that fibromyalgia is diagnosed through a process of elimination. Doctors must rule out other causes Show Full Answer
That frustration is completely valid, and you are definitely not alone in feeling this way. Many MyFibroTeam members share the same sense of doubt and dissatisfaction after receiving a fibromyalgia diagnosis.
The reality is that fibromyalgia is diagnosed through a process of elimination. Doctors must rule out other causes before confirming it, which can feel unsatisfying — especially when some of your test results aren't coming back completely normal. The three core criteria that must all be present for a fibromyalgia diagnosis are:
- Widespread pain felt on both sides of the body, upper and lower
- Symptoms lasting at least three months at a similar severity
- All other possible causes ruled out
Blood tests can't confirm fibromyalgia, but abnormal results like yours — elevated infection markers and high red blood cell counts — are worth pushing back on with your doctor. Those findings deserve a thorough explanation, not just a catch-all label. One MyFibroTeam member shared a similar experience, saying they were still searching for the right doctors and trying to build a trusted medical team — which is a completely reasonable goal.
It's okay to advocate for yourself and ask your doctor directly why those abnormal results aren't being investigated further. A second opinion is always within your rights too. 💙
May 18