Other conditions with symptoms similar to fibromyalgia

Many conditions are reported either to be associated with fibromyalgia or to share similar symptoms. Because there are so many other conditions with similar symptoms, diagnosing fibromyalgia can be difficult.¹ Some of these disorders include:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Depression.
• Osteoarthritis.
• Restless legs syndrome.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).
• Lupus.
• Lyme disease. Some people report having had Lyme disease prior to a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, but a connection between the two conditions has not been established.
• Hypothyroidism (low thyroid level).
• Sleep apnea.
• Temporomandibular disorder (jaw problems).
• Irritable bowel syndrome.
• Interstitial cystitis.

Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: October 30, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.