If you suffer from Fibromyalgia, you know that in severe cases it can be debilitating, even disabling. Yet, Fibromyalgia sufferers also know that proving disability to an insurance carrier can be a daunting experience. That is because not much is known about the causes of Fibromyalgia, and there is little, if any, objective diagnostic testing available to determine whether an individual has this condition.
Who Is Likely To Be Affected?
According to the latest studies, middle aged women have the highest incidence of Fibromyalgia (80 to 90 percent of those diagnosed). Additionally, individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus; or have a history of Fibromyalgia in their family have a higher risk of developing the condition.
There is some evidence to suggest that fibromyalgia may have a genetic component. That is, an individual may have a specific gene which causes a greater sensitivity to pain. But this has not been medically proven.
What Are The Symptoms?
People with Fibromyalgia complain of fatigue and muscle pain. They often have trouble sleeping, suffer headaches, experience extremity tingling, and morning stiffness, have difficulty concentrating, and have difficult menstrual cycles. Fibromyalgia can be categorized by a series of tender points on the body. Typically, these tender points are the neck, shoulders, arms, and legs.
Also, Fibromyalgia sufferers sometimes suffer from concurrent conditions such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), TMJ (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), chronic fatigue syndrome, painful bladder syndrome, and endometriosis, among some others.
If you suffer from symptoms of Fibromyalgia, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Frequently, individuals with Fibromyalgia are treated by rheumatologists, doctors specializing in joint or soft tissue conditions such as arthritis.
If you are disabled by Fibromyalgia and can no longer work, seek the counsel of a knowledgeable disability attorney.