ptsd Fibromyalgia

[flyfisher]

I just recently was told by my provider that I have fibromyalgia with the onset caused by my PTSD. Can I file for that as secondary to my PTSD? Has anyone had any expierence in filing for fibromyalgia secondary to PTSD? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[JT24usn]

That would be much appreciated. Did you go through the rheumatologist, or how did the rule out everything else? If you don't mind me asking? Thanks again.

[flyfisher]

I never saw a rheumatologist. I saw my NP in primary care who first diagnosed me then she referred to the pain clinic where I saw another NP who again diagnosed me with fibromyalgia. I had blood work completed to rule out arthritis. I was also sent to physical therapy where they gave me excercises to do on my own. I was started on Gabapentin and they had me at really high doses and then my feet swelled up twice thier normal size which is a side effect. Then she put me on Lyrica and just increased that on my last visit. I can see some improvement as far as pain going to real high level but my pain remains in the 4-5 range which is better than it was.

I was in Desert Storm so fibromyalgia is part of the Persian Gulf syndrome. I was told by vet rep that service connection for fibromyalgia was granted and just found out today via e-benefits that my claim has went backward to the need further review. I had some other claims in with my fibromyalgia that when he looked were deferred so I am guessing that is what is from. I went from my claim ending in June to now could be as late as November. When you go to see a provider they will definitely test you for trigger points pain which is the only real way to diagnose fibromyalgia. If you have any further questions let me know.