Bipolar and Fibromyalgia

[BipolarBear75]

Does anyone have both dx and yet their pdoc doesn't believe them? I got diagnosed like 8 years ago I think (kind of don't remember...the exact time) but now this year I get dx of bipolar and my pdoc doesn't believe I have fibromyalgia...I know I have the pain....and it feels like it is coming back, and if so this is the fourth flare up (one lasting two years, one lasting 6 months to a year, one was three months because of the depo-provera shot) what do I do to get taken seriously?  Am I too crazy to have pain? To be taken seriously? I have my pdoc appointment tonight and my GP appointment tomorrow afternoon. Is anyone in the same predicament?

[bernie40]

Hi, I would point out to your pdoc very firmly that you were dx with the fibromyalgia BEFORE being dx bipolar.

Also explain to your doc that the pdoc isn't listening with regard to your fibromyalgia diagnosis.  He/she may be prepared to write to your pdoc.

[BipolarBear75]

Thanks...yes and it is a good thing I got the fibromyalgia diagnosis before...can you imagine the reverse? My GP believes me for sure....my pdoc says he isn't sure it is fibromyalgia or the pain that bipolars get....because just because I was diagnosed as one before the other.....he believes I have had the bipolar since I was a teen.....he makes me wonder about myself. But you are right!!!!!

[shortcircuited]

Pain that bipolars get??? There is no diagnostic pain criteria for bipolar.  Where did you pdoc get his degree--online???

[LeftCoastChick]

Physical pain can be part of depression, therefore it would be included in BP - I suffer from chronic pain syndrome. Hell if I know why, but since I have switched to mood stabilizers, my pain levels have gone down.  Much pain is located in the brain not the area of pain.  I think I have been Bp since I was 7, looking back at my behaviors, boy it all makes sense. wow!