Strategies for living with Fibromyalgia

Controlling Symptoms With Mind-Body Techniques

Many find that fibromyalgia symptoms can be effectively controlled with the aid of mind-body practices and that flare triggers can also be reduced in this way. Especially useful practices include things like yoga and mediation, the choices really are endless. Speak to a physician about the practices they believe may be helpful or discuss the topic with an online or in-person fibromyalgia support group.

Employment And Fibromyalgia

This is a condition that may force some patients to make a choice when it comes to the sort of employment they are able to maintain. There are certain individuals who have no problem continuing with their existing line of work after a diagnosis, but others will be unable to do the same. Patients will need to do their own research to determine potential eligibility for any help. If you need legal advice contact Brian Barr.

Success Through Better Sleep

Sleep patterns can play a surprisingly large role in how severely a patient is affected by their fibromyalgia. Sleep apnea is a condition that impacts some fibromyalgia patients, and some are not even aware that they are suffering from it. If snoring or nighttime gasping have been mentioned as lingering issues, it is best to consult with a doctor. Sleep studies can be conducted as a way to determine if obstructive sleep apnea is present. If it is, CPAP treatment can prove vital to curtailing symptoms of fibromyalgia and lower the risk that complications will arise.

Fibromyalgia patients are also commonly known to experience bouts of insomnia. Patients need to understand that this condition can be far more than just a nuisance, it can actually exacerbate symptoms. Treatments including stress reduction techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sometimes prescription drugs can make a real difference in such instances.

Drug Therapies

Medications used to treat fibromyalgia are increasing all the time, and these include formulations designed and approved to address the condition itself and those that are targeted at symptoms instead. Though greater understanding of these drugs is needed, most are understood to impact brain neurotransmitter levels. Of course, medications have their role to play in managing fibromyalgia, they are most effective when used together with other treatment options.

Hormonal Balancing

Many female fibromyalgia sufferers also experience painful menstrual periods, and these can make existing discomfort even worse for those several days each month. Patients sometimes find that their fibromyalgia flares are related to the chronology of their cycles, starting at the time of ovulation and waning during the periods themselves. Certain patients also suffer from erratic periods as well. Symptoms may be controlled though treatments such as endometrial ablation or hormonal balancing therapies.

Manifesting Gratitude

Though it can sometimes be a challenge when fibromyalgia is rearing its head, those battling the condition can sometimes achieve relief by making a conscious expression of gratitude. Maintaining a journal for this purpose can be an easy way to make this part of daily life. While scientific proof of the effectiveness of this technique may not yet be voluminous, it is clear that gratitude itself is a stress reducer, and stress is a known contributor for flares in many fibromyalgia patients.