Top conditions that are often misdiagnosed in Illinois

Having a misdiagnosis can be incredibly frustrating. Not only are you dealing with whatever health issue you have, but you’re also trying to figure out why medical professionals couldn’t give you a straight answer in the first place. If you’ve been misdiagnosed, you’re not alone. Here are four conditions that are often misdiagnosed.

Lyme disease

This tick-borne illness is often misdiagnosed as the flu, arthritis or even depression. It’s often caused by a bulls-eye rash, but not everyone will have this symptom. If you think you may have Lyme disease, it’s important to see a doctor who is familiar with the condition. One of the diseases or conditions that doctors often mistake for Lyme disease is chronic fatigue syndrome, which can have similar symptoms.

Celiac disease

Celiac disease is a reaction to gluten, but it’s often misdiagnosed as Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome. The only way to diagnose celiac disease is with a blood test and/or biopsy. In many cases, doctors mistake the symptoms of celiac disease for another condition because the symptoms can be so varied. Some of these conditions include anemia, skin rash osteoporosis and even depression.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is often misdiagnosed as arthritis or chronic fatigue syndrome. The main symptom of fibromyalgia is pain, but it can also cause fatigue, sleep problems and mood issues. There is no one test to diagnose fibromyalgia, so doctors often rely on ruling out other conditions. If you think you may have fibromyalgia, it’s important to see a doctor who is familiar with the condition.

Multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is often misdiagnosed as another neurological disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. As a basis of most medical malpractice cases, MS can be mistaken for a mental health disorder, such as depression. The only way to diagnose multiple sclerosis is with a medical exam and brain scan. If you think you may have multiple sclerosis, it’s important to see a doctor who is familiar with the condition.

In many cases, the only way to diagnose the condition is with a medical exam and/or brain scan. Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion if you think something may be off. Your health is worth it.