A Closer Look at Fibromyalgia and Other Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases make themselves known in a number of ways, resulting in various unpleasant symptoms and issues. Fibromyalgia is one of the most well-known autoimmune diseases. As a pain disorder, it is also one of the most common conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. It affects over 12 million Americans with most patients being women between 25 and 60 years old.

Common symptoms include extreme fatigue, chronic pain, stiffness, and difficulty concentrating (sometimes called “fibro fog”). Other symptoms can include frequent headaches or migraines, depression, anxiety, and GI tract problems. Some of the symptoms can mimic those of other autoimmune diseases and disorders, so fibromyalgia can be tough to diagnose.

How is Fibromyalgia Diagnosed?

Since many diseases can cause pain, fatigue, and other fibromyalgia-like symptoms, the medical professional will have to rule out the other possible candidates. Since hypothyroidism is a condition that can cause fibromyalgia-like symptoms, the doctor will probably order a thyroid test.

Who Treats Autoimmune Diseases Like Fibromyalgia?

While a primary care doctor can evaluate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, they may recommend the patient to a specialist for treatment. There are several possible specialists, and both the primary care physician and the patient will have to choose a specialist who has experience in treating fibromyalgia.

You should be happy to know that Dr. Chris Siano has osteopathic training and specializes in integrative, naturopathic, and functional medicine. He is passionate about herbal medicine and using natural approaches to treat the patient as a whole.

Advantages of Seeing Dr. Siano

Dr. Siano has a lot of experience in treating fibromyalgia and other autoimmune diseases and is aware of all the latest developments concerning these types of diseases. He knows that while there is so far no cure for fibromyalgia, there are treatments that can provide some relief from the symptoms. As those symptoms can vary from patient to patient, Dr. Siano can recommend the therapies that would be most beneficial to the patient.

Whether you are dealing with fibromyalgia or another autoimmune disease like Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis or methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), you can count on Dr. Siano and the team at Knox Wellness Experience to provide you with advanced testing, an accurate diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment approaches so that you can feel your best again. During a consultation at our office in Knoxville, you can have an assessment and learn about your possible treatment options. Contact us today to set up your appointment!