Fibromyalgia symptoms

The condition is primarily characterised by chronic pain in the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissue areas. The severe pain causes distinct areas of tenderness in specific locations, known as pressure points. Some individuals also suffer numbness along with bowel and bladder issues. It can be extremely difficult for fibromyalgia sufferers to sit or stand for long periods of time. This can make it difficult for sufferers to continue to lead a normal life. In addition to the physical effects of fibromyalgia, sufferers commonly experience secondary psychological symptoms. These can include:

• depression,
• cognitive deficits (e.g. in memory and concentration)
• chronic fatigue
• disturbed sleep
• mood swings

Causes of fibromyalgia

In some cases, fibromyalgia develops spontaneously and it is difficult to determine the exact cause of the condition. However, in others, fibromyalgia can be caused by physical trauma or a sudden forceful injury suffered in an accident. It is most commonly caused by whiplash injuries sustained in a car accident, in a fall, or due to an individual being hit by a falling object. In these instances, the condition is known as post-traumatic fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia can also be caused by some viral infections or triggered by emotional or physical abuse.

Fibromyalgia claims

Many people currently living with fibromyalgia have suffered a traumatic event that wasn’t their fault and are left with life-altering effects. If you have fibromyalgia following an accident, you might be entitled to make a fibromyalgia personal injury claim. You might also be able to claim if you were already suffering from the condition, but an accident or injury has made your symptoms worse.

ASSESSING YOUR CLAIM

In a valid fibromyalgia claim, there has to be a continuity of pain from the accident as a result of an injury such as whiplash. Usually, to make a successful claim, you must be able to demonstrate that your fibromyalgia symptoms have been caused by the initial injury suffered in your accident. Once it has been determined that you have a valid claim, your solicitor will work hard to collect evidence to strengthen your claim. This evidence usually includes a medical report from a relevant expert, witness evidence and the client’s GP records.

How much compensation for fibromyalgia claims?

Compensation claims related to fibromyalgia are often significant in value because of the debilitating and long-term nature of the condition. Clients generally require considerable care and assistance which generates large care claims. Claims for fibromyalgia can provide compensation not only for your pain and suffering but for any financial losses you’ve experienced as a result of your condition. While some individuals with fibromyalgia are able to continue working, they might only be able to work part-time or in a less demanding job. What’s more, individuals usually require time off work to attend medical appointments which can be disruptive to their employment. In many cases, however, sufferers are unable to work altogether. This can lead to a large loss of earning claim. As part of a compensation claim for fibromyalgia, you will be able to recover any loss of earnings you’ve experienced as a result of your condition. You may also be able to claim back other financial losses such as:

• medical expenses
• the cost of prescriptions
• travel expenses
• specialist treatments like cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) or physiotherapy