Polyneuropathy vs. Fibromyalgia

Illnesses that come with chronic pain are often difficult to diagnose.  When we look at some of the characteristics of polyneuropathy vs. Fibromyalgia, it’s easy to see why doctors often struggle with a diagnosis between the two.There are several differences to be noted when comparing polyneuropathy vs. fibromyalgia.  To really understand them, you need to have a basic understanding of the two illnesses.  Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain illness.  People who suffer from fibromyalgia usually experience aches, stiffness, tenderness, chronic fatigue, and difficulty sleeping. It’s important to note when comparing polyneuropathy vs. fibromyalgia that fibromyalgia usually includes neck, back, shoulder, hand, and pelvis pain.  It also comes with a variety of other symptoms including headaches, concentration problems, dizziness, coordination problems, and restless legs syndrome. When we compare polyneuropathy vs. fibromyalgia, it is important to note that polyneuropathy is a peripheral nerve disorder.  It often starts in both legs and progresses up both arms.  Unlike the achy, sore feelings of fibromyalgia, polyneuropathy is described as a “pins and needles” sensation.  Pain can be more intense at night or during temperature changes. Some polyneuropathy patients experience loss of control of bodily waste functions, sexual problems, periods of high and low blood pressure, or constipation. Another key difference to be noted when we compare polyneuropathy vs. fibromyalgia is the fact that polyneuropathy has several known causes.  Once a patient is diagnosed, further testing is done to determine the cause so that doctors can treat that particular condition.  Since there are various causes for polyneuropathy, the particular mode of treatment that your doctor advises will depend on the cause for your illness.  Although there are noticeable differences when comparing polyneuropathy vs. fibromyalgia, it’s important to remember that only a licensed physician is qualified enough to make a true diagnosis or distinction between the two.

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