MayoClinic.com focuses on diagnosing fibromyalgia symptoms

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain in your muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as fatigue and multiple tender points.

A new feature on MayoClinic.com provides users with information regarding the process for diagnosing fibromyalgia. Because there is no single, specific diagnostic laboratory test, diagnosis can be difficult. Physicians must rely on patient histories, self-reported symptoms, a physical examination and an accurate manual tender-point examination.

Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary, depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Widespread pain
• Fatigue and sleep disturbances
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Headaches and facial pain
• Heightened sensitivity

The American College of Rheumatology has established general classification guidelines for fibromyalgia to help assess and study the condition. According to these guidelines, to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, individuals must have experienced widespread aching pain for at least three months and have a minimum of 11 locations on their body that are abnormally tender under relatively mild, firm pressure.

The new feature on MayoClinic.com also provides an overview of treatment options, self-care suggestions, and tips to help people who have fibromyalgia cope with the condition.

• Fibromyalgia symptoms or not? Understand the fibromyalgia diagnosis process
• Fibromyalgia