[DaveSP]

Neurologist just gave me the results of my biopsy. Says I have small fiber neuropathy. And that I have fibromyalgia based on this and other symptoms.

I tried to get some answers from him such as what could have caused this and what my prognosis was, but he brushed me off and said "you're fine--you're otherwise healthy and this isn't a big deal" Then he referred me to a pain management specialist.

I am going to get a second opinion but before I do so I though I'd ask here.

I'm 40/m. Other medical problems include mild sleep apnea, fatigue, tiredness, unrestful sleep, brain fog, depression, anxiety, burning sensation in feet (which I understand is the SFN.) The burning has been a more recent (past few years, the other symptoms I've had for about 15 years.) I am low functioning due to the tiredness and brain fog.

Is there hope for the SFN to get better?

What are the chances of it getting worse?

Any suggestions?

I am still trying to figure out what has caused this. I did have exposure to spray paint about 15-20 years ago (I used to paint murals) but most of the time I wore a vapor mask. Most of the cases I read about are people who had regular exposure at work for years. I know lots of people who had the same amount of exposure as me or a lot more and are fine. Still, it lingers in my mind as a "what if"?

Chronic lyme also comes up as a possibility, as I am in an area with a lot of lyme (my dad had it twice) but that is a controversial diagnosis and it seems like if I do have it, it is late stage and nearly impossible to test for.

I've had full blood work done, all negative.

Here are my results if anyone's interested.

Epidermal Nerve Fiber Density Test

RT Calf: 3.96. Abnormal <3.9 Low Normal 3.9-4.6
RT Foot: 1.1. Abnormal <3 Low Normal 3-4.8

Sweat Gland Nerve Fiber Density Test

RT Calf: 45.3. Abnormal <36.5 Low Normal 36.5-38.5
RT Foot: 34.8. Abnormal <34.8 Low Normal 34.8-35.9