Some people think that fibro is mental,
Some people think that if you have one, you probably have the other...
I found this article from womens health advice.com that might explain some of the basics.
Hope you enjoy it.
What Is The Difference Between Arthritis And Fibromyalgia?
Although both conditions can cause widespread pain and tiredness, they are two different illnesses. While fibromyalgia is considered an arthritis-related condition, it is not a true form of arthritis because it does not cause tissue inflammation nor does it damage joints or muscles. However some consider it a rheumatic condition because it can make the joints and surrounding tissues painful and sore to use. In general people with fibromyalgia have normal looking X-ray and blood tests results, and family and friends drive them mad by telling them they look fine. A person with arthritis will have abnormal test results and they may also be in visible pain, with swollen or deformed joints.
How They Get Confused: Misdiagnosis
An incorrect diagnosis of arthritis is not uncommon. Occasionally a doctor will mistake fibromyalgia for arthritis. This is because the early stages of arthritis produce symptoms which are similar to symptoms of fibromyalgia. This includes muscle stiffness, aches and tiredness; as well as depression and a general feeling of unwellness. Although fibromyalgia patients have normal X-ray and blood tests results, so can someone with early stages of arthritis if the bones or joints have not yet deteriorated. As arthritis is much more common, the doctor may make this diagnosis without thinking of fibromyalgia. He might say the patient has a 'touch' of arthritis, whereas she really has fibromyalgia. The rules for fibromyalgia are a little tougher. If the doctor starts off by thinking the patient might be experiencing fibromyalgia pain, a fibromyalgia diagnosis is never given until all other potential causes of pain, including arthritis, have been ruled out. Personal traumas, going back as far as childhood should also be taken into account, as it may be a trigger for fibro pain. See, can an accident or trauma trigger fibromyalgia?
An incorrect diagnosis of arthritis is not uncommon. Occasionally a doctor will mistake fibromyalgia for arthritis. This is because the early stages of arthritis produce symptoms which are similar to symptoms of fibromyalgia. This includes muscle stiffness, aches and tiredness; as well as depression and a general feeling of unwellness. Although fibromyalgia patients have normal X-ray and blood tests results, so can someone with early stages of arthritis if the bones or joints have not yet deteriorated. As arthritis is much more common, the doctor may make this diagnosis without thinking of fibromyalgia. He might say the patient has a 'touch' of arthritis, whereas she really has fibromyalgia. The rules for fibromyalgia are a little tougher. If the doctor starts off by thinking the patient might be experiencing fibromyalgia pain, a fibromyalgia diagnosis is never given until all other potential causes of pain, including arthritis, have been ruled out. Personal traumas, going back as far as childhood should also be taken into account, as it may be a trigger for fibro pain. See, can an accident or trauma trigger fibromyalgia?
