Dear Fibromyalgia

Category: Fibromyalgia Pain

A comprehensive look at Fibromyalgia pain, its symptoms, triggers, and effective strategies to manage and alleviate discomfort.

  • Balancing Act: Budgeting Time as a Parent with Fibromyalgia

    Balancing Act: Budgeting Time as a Parent with Fibromyalgia

    Introduction

    Being a parent is a challenging and rewarding role, but when you add the complexities of fibromyalgia into the mix, it can feel overwhelming. Managing time efficiently becomes crucial as you balance parental responsibilities with the need to manage chronic pain, fatigue, and other symptoms. This article explores effective strategies for budgeting time as a parent with fibromyalgia, helping you find balance and maintain your well-being.

    Understanding Fibromyalgia

    What is Fibromyalgia?

    Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues often referred to as “fibro fog.” The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

    Common Symptoms

    • Widespread Pain: Persistent pain affecting both sides of the body.
    • Fatigue: Chronic tiredness that does not improve with rest.
    • Sleep Issues: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep.
    • Cognitive Problems: Issues with memory, attention, and concentration.
    • Other Symptoms: Headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, and mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.

    Challenges of Parenting with Fibromyalgia

    Balancing Responsibilities

    Parenting requires a constant juggling act of responsibilities, from taking care of the kids to managing household tasks. With fibromyalgia, these responsibilities can become even more challenging due to unpredictable symptoms and the need for frequent rest.

    Emotional Impact

    The chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia can lead to feelings of frustration, guilt, and anxiety, especially when you feel unable to meet the demands of parenting. It’s important to acknowledge these emotions and seek support when needed.

    Effective Time Management Strategies

    Prioritize Tasks

    Identify the most important tasks that need to be completed each day. Focus on high-priority activities that directly impact your family’s well-being and your own health. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of daily responsibilities.

    Create a Flexible Schedule

    Flexibility is key when managing fibromyalgia. Create a daily schedule that includes time for rest and allows for adjustments based on how you feel. Include buffer times between activities to accommodate any unexpected needs for rest.

    Delegate Responsibilities

    Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to other family members. Children can take on age-appropriate chores, and your partner can help share the load. Delegating not only helps you manage your energy but also fosters a sense of responsibility in your children.

    Incorporate Self-Care

    Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Schedule time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as gentle exercise, meditation, or hobbies. Self-care is essential for managing fibromyalgia symptoms and maintaining your overall well-being.

    Practical Tips for Daily Management

    Morning Routine

    Start your day with a gentle routine that includes stretching and a healthy breakfast. Prioritize activities that set a positive tone for the day and help manage morning stiffness.

    Break Tasks into Smaller Steps

    Large tasks can be overwhelming, so break them into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach makes tasks feel less daunting and allows you to make steady progress without overexerting yourself.

    Use Energy Wisely

    Be mindful of how you use your energy throughout the day. Alternate between high-energy and low-energy activities to avoid fatigue. For example, follow a physically demanding task with a rest period or a less strenuous activity.

    Stay Organized

    Keep your home organized to reduce stress and save time. Use storage solutions and organizational tools to keep things in order. A tidy environment can make daily tasks easier to manage.

    Involving Your Family

    Open Communication

    Discuss your condition with your family members to help them understand your limitations and needs. Open communication fosters empathy and cooperation, making it easier to navigate daily challenges together.

    Family Meetings

    Hold regular family meetings to discuss the week’s schedule, delegate tasks, and address any concerns. This collaborative approach ensures everyone is on the same page and helps prevent misunderstandings.

    Encourage Independence

    Encourage your children to be more independent by teaching them to complete tasks on their own. This not only lightens your load but also builds their confidence and self-sufficiency.

    Seeking Support

    Join Support Groups

    Connect with other parents who have fibromyalgia through support groups, either online or in-person. Sharing experiences and advice can provide emotional support and practical tips for managing your condition.

    Professional Help

    Consider seeking help from a professional, such as a therapist or counselor, to address the emotional challenges of living with fibromyalgia. Professional support can provide coping strategies and help improve your mental well-being.

    FAQs

    How can I prioritize tasks as a parent with fibromyalgia?

    Identify the most important tasks that need to be completed each day and focus on high-priority activities. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of responsibilities and ensure you’re dedicating time to essential tasks.

    What is a flexible schedule and how can it help?

    A flexible schedule allows for adjustments based on your daily energy levels and symptoms. It includes time for rest and buffer periods between activities to accommodate unexpected needs for rest.

    How can I involve my family in managing daily tasks?

    Communicate openly with your family about your condition and limitations. Delegate age-appropriate chores to children and share responsibilities with your partner. Hold regular family meetings to discuss schedules and tasks.

    Why is self-care important for parents with fibromyalgia?

    Self-care is essential for managing fibromyalgia symptoms and maintaining overall well-being. It helps you recharge, reduces stress, and improves your ability to handle daily responsibilities.

    What are some practical tips for managing daily tasks with fibromyalgia?

    Break tasks into smaller steps, use energy wisely by alternating between high-energy and low-energy activities, and keep your home organized to reduce stress and save time.

    Where can I find support as a parent with fibromyalgia?

    Join support groups for parents with fibromyalgia, either online or in-person, to connect with others who understand your challenges. Consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor for additional support.

    Conclusion

    Budgeting time as a parent with fibromyalgia requires careful planning, flexibility, and a strong support system. By prioritizing tasks, creating a flexible schedule, delegating responsibilities, and incorporating self-care into your daily routine, you can effectively manage your symptoms while fulfilling your parental responsibilities. Remember, open communication with your family and seeking support from others can make a significant difference in navigating the challenges of parenting with fibromyalgia. With the right strategies, you can find balance and enjoy a fulfilling family life despite the complexities of your condition.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
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    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Unveiling the Unseen: 10 Lesser-Known Symptoms of Fibromyalgia I Experience

    Unveiling the Unseen: 10 Lesser-Known Symptoms of Fibromyalgia I Experience

    Introduction

    Fibromyalgia is often associated with its most well-known symptoms, such as widespread pain and chronic fatigue. However, those living with the condition know that it encompasses a much broader range of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. This article explores 10 lesser-known symptoms of fibromyalgia, shedding light on the hidden challenges and unique experiences faced by those managing this chronic illness.

    1. Cognitive Dysfunction (Fibro Fog)

    What It Is

    Cognitive dysfunction, commonly referred to as “fibro fog,” includes problems with memory, concentration, and mental clarity. It can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks and maintain productivity.

    Personal Experience

    I often find myself forgetting simple things, like where I placed my keys or what I was about to do. Concentration can be a struggle, making it hard to follow conversations or stay focused on tasks.

    2. Sensory Sensitivities

    What It Is

    Fibromyalgia can cause heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and temperature. This sensory overload can lead to discomfort and exacerbate other symptoms.

    Personal Experience

    Bright lights and loud noises can be overwhelming, causing me to feel anxious or stressed. I also find it challenging to tolerate extreme temperatures, whether it’s too hot or too cold.

    3. Digestive Issues

    What It Is

    Many people with fibromyalgia experience gastrointestinal problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Symptoms can include bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea.

    Personal Experience

    Digestive issues can be unpredictable and uncomfortable. I often deal with bloating and abdominal pain, which can make it difficult to eat certain foods or maintain a regular eating schedule.

    4. Headaches and Migraines

    What It Is

    Frequent headaches and migraines are common in fibromyalgia sufferers. These can range from mild tension headaches to severe, debilitating migraines.

    Personal Experience

    I experience headaches several times a week, often triggered by stress or sensory overload. Migraines can be particularly challenging, causing intense pain and sensitivity to light and sound.

    5. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

    What It Is

    Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.

    Personal Experience

    At night, I often feel a tingling or itching sensation in my legs that makes it hard to stay still. This restless feeling can interfere with my ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

    6. Dizziness and Balance Issues

    What It Is

    Fibromyalgia can affect the vestibular system, leading to dizziness and balance problems. This can cause a feeling of unsteadiness or vertigo.

    Personal Experience

    I sometimes feel lightheaded or dizzy, especially when standing up quickly. Balance issues can make it challenging to walk steadily or perform tasks that require coordination.

    7. Sensation of Swelling

    What It Is

    Many people with fibromyalgia report a sensation of swelling in their hands and feet, even if there is no visible swelling. This can cause discomfort and pain.

    Personal Experience

    My hands and feet often feel swollen and tender, making it difficult to wear rings or shoes. The sensation can be frustrating, as it affects my ability to perform fine motor tasks.

    8. Skin Sensitivity

    What It Is

    Fibromyalgia can cause the skin to become overly sensitive, leading to pain or discomfort from light touch or pressure. This condition is known as allodynia.

    Personal Experience

    Even a gentle touch can sometimes feel painful. Wearing certain fabrics or tight clothing can be uncomfortable, and I often have to choose my clothing carefully.

    9. Jaw Pain (TMJ Disorders)

    What It Is

    Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are common in people with fibromyalgia, causing pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles.

    Personal Experience

    I frequently experience jaw pain and stiffness, which can make eating and speaking uncomfortable. Sometimes, I also hear a clicking or popping sound when I open my mouth.

    10. Numbness and Tingling

    What It Is

    Numbness and tingling sensations, often in the hands and feet, are common in fibromyalgia. These sensations can range from mild to severe and may come and go unpredictably.

    Personal Experience

    My hands and feet often feel numb or tingly, especially after staying in one position for too long. This can make it difficult to hold objects or perform tasks that require fine motor skills.

    FAQs

    What are some lesser-known symptoms of fibromyalgia?

    Lesser-known symptoms include cognitive dysfunction (fibro fog), sensory sensitivities, digestive issues, headaches and migraines, restless legs syndrome (RLS), dizziness and balance issues, sensation of swelling, skin sensitivity, jaw pain (TMJ disorders), and numbness and tingling.

    How do these lesser-known symptoms impact daily life?

    These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities, from maintaining productivity and social interactions to performing basic tasks like eating, walking, and sleeping.

    Why are these symptoms less well-known?

    These symptoms may be less well-known because they are not as easily visible or commonly associated with fibromyalgia. Additionally, the variability and subjective nature of these symptoms can make them harder to recognize and diagnose.

    How can I manage these lesser-known symptoms?

    Management strategies include medication, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and alternative therapies such as acupuncture and massage. Consulting with healthcare professionals can help develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

    Is it common for fibromyalgia symptoms to vary in intensity?

    Yes, it is common for fibromyalgia symptoms to vary in intensity and presentation. Factors such as stress, weather, physical activity, and sleep quality can influence symptom severity.

    What should I do if I experience these symptoms?

    If you experience these symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and to develop an appropriate management plan. Keeping a symptom diary can help track patterns and triggers.

    Conclusion

    Fibromyalgia is a multifaceted condition with a wide range of symptoms that extend beyond the commonly recognized pain and fatigue. Understanding and acknowledging these lesser-known symptoms is crucial for comprehensive management and improving quality of life. By recognizing the full spectrum of fibromyalgia’s impact, those living with the condition can seek appropriate support and treatment, ultimately empowering themselves to live more fully and comfortably.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Understanding Fibromyalgia

    Outline for “Fibromyalgia”

    HeadingSub-Headings
    H1: Understanding Fibromyalgia
    H2: What is Fibromyalgia?Definition of Fibromyalgia
    History and Discovery of Fibromyalgia
    H2: Symptoms of FibromyalgiaCommon Symptoms
    Uncommon Symptoms
    Fibromyalgia Pain
    Cognitive Symptoms (Fibro Fog)
    Emotional Symptoms
    H2: Causes of FibromyalgiaGenetic Factors
    Environmental Triggers
    Biological Factors
    H2: Diagnosing FibromyalgiaDiagnostic Criteria
    Diagnostic Tests
    Differential Diagnosis
    H2: Treatment Options for FibromyalgiaMedications
    Physical Therapy
    Alternative Therapies
    Lifestyle Modifications
    H2: Medications for FibromyalgiaPain Relievers
    Antidepressants
    Anti-seizure Drugs
    H2: Non-Pharmacological TreatmentsCognitive Behavioral Therapy
    Exercise and Physical Therapy
    Diet and Nutrition
    Mindfulness and Meditation
    H2: Living with FibromyalgiaDaily Life Management
    Work and Fibromyalgia
    Support Networks
    H2: Fibromyalgia in Different PopulationsWomen and Fibromyalgia
    Men and Fibromyalgia
    Children and Adolescents
    H2: Fibromyalgia and Mental HealthDepression and Anxiety
    Coping Strategies
    Seeking Professional Help
    H2: Myths and MisconceptionsCommon Myths
    The Reality of Fibromyalgia
    H2: Research and Future DirectionsCurrent Research
    Future Therapies
    H2: FAQs about FibromyalgiaWhat are the first signs of fibromyalgia?
    How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?
    Can fibromyalgia be cured?
    What are the best treatments for fibromyalgia?
    How does diet affect fibromyalgia?
    Are there any new treatments for fibromyalgia?
    H2: ConclusionSummary of Key Points
    Encouragement for Readers

    Understanding Fibromyalgia

    What is Fibromyalgia?

    Definition of Fibromyalgia

    Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain, tenderness in muscles and joints, and a range of other symptoms. This disorder affects millions of people worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life.

    History and Discovery of Fibromyalgia

    Fibromyalgia was first described in medical literature in the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the late 20th century that it gained widespread recognition. Researchers have since made strides in understanding its complexities, though its exact cause remains elusive.

    Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

    Common Symptoms

    Fibromyalgia is notorious for its diverse symptoms, which can vary significantly from person to person. The most common symptoms include chronic widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.

    Uncommon Symptoms

    In addition to the more common symptoms, some individuals may experience unusual symptoms such as restless legs syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, and heightened sensitivity to light, noise, and temperature.

    Fibromyalgia Pain

    The pain associated with fibromyalgia is often described as a constant, dull ache that has lasted for at least three months. It typically occurs on both sides of the body and above and below the waist.

    Cognitive Symptoms (Fibro Fog)

    Many people with fibromyalgia experience cognitive difficulties, commonly referred to as “fibro fog.” These can include problems with focus, memory, and concentration.

    Emotional Symptoms

    Emotional symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, are also prevalent among those with fibromyalgia. The chronic pain and fatigue can contribute to a cycle of emotional distress.

    Causes of Fibromyalgia

    Genetic Factors

    Research suggests that fibromyalgia may run in families, indicating a possible genetic predisposition. Certain genes are thought to influence the way the brain processes pain signals.

    Environmental Triggers

    Various environmental factors can trigger fibromyalgia symptoms. These may include physical or emotional trauma, infections, or prolonged stress.

    Biological Factors

    Biological abnormalities, such as imbalances in neurotransmitters and hormonal irregularities, may also play a role in the development of fibromyalgia. The central nervous system’s heightened response to pain is a key feature of the disorder.

    Diagnosing Fibromyalgia

    Diagnostic Criteria

    The diagnosis of fibromyalgia is primarily clinical, based on patient history and symptom presentation. The American College of Rheumatology has established specific criteria, including widespread pain lasting more than three months and the presence of tender points.

    Diagnostic Tests

    While there are no definitive tests for fibromyalgia, doctors often use blood tests and imaging studies to rule out other conditions that could mimic its symptoms.

    Differential Diagnosis

    Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and chronic fatigue syndrome share similar symptoms with fibromyalgia, making differential diagnosis crucial to ensure appropriate treatment.

    Treatment Options for Fibromyalgia

    Medications

    Several medications can help manage fibromyalgia symptoms. These include pain relievers, antidepressants, and anti-seizure drugs.

    Physical Therapy

    Physical therapy can improve mobility and reduce pain through exercises tailored to the patient’s needs. Techniques such as hydrotherapy and massage may also be beneficial.

    Alternative Therapies

    Many patients find relief through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and biofeedback. These approaches can complement conventional treatments.

    Lifestyle Modifications

    Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet, can significantly impact the severity and frequency of fibromyalgia symptoms.

    Medications for Fibromyalgia

    Pain Relievers

    Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Prescription pain medications may be necessary for more severe cases.

    Antidepressants

    Certain antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and duloxetine, can help alleviate pain and improve sleep. They may also address the emotional symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.

    Anti-seizure Drugs

    Medications like pregabalin and gabapentin, originally developed for epilepsy, are effective in reducing fibromyalgia pain by altering nerve signals.

    Non-Pharmacological Treatments

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help patients manage pain and cope with the emotional challenges of fibromyalgia. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

    Exercise and Physical Therapy

    Regular, low-impact exercise, such as walking, swimming, and yoga, can improve overall health and reduce pain. Physical therapy provides a structured approach to maintaining mobility and strength.

    Diet and Nutrition

    A nutritious diet can support overall health and reduce inflammation. Some patients find that eliminating certain foods, such as gluten or dairy, helps reduce symptoms.

    Mindfulness and Meditation

    Mindfulness and meditation practices can help manage stress and improve emotional well-being. Techniques such as deep breathing and guided imagery are particularly beneficial.

    Living with Fibromyalgia

    Daily Life Management

    Managing daily life with fibromyalgia involves balancing activity with rest, using assistive devices if necessary, and developing a routine that accommodates fluctuating energy levels.

    Work and Fibromyalgia

    Many people with fibromyalgia continue to work, though they may need to make adjustments, such as flexible hours or modified duties, to manage their symptoms effectively.

    Support Networks

    Support from family, friends, and fibromyalgia support groups can provide emotional strength and practical advice. Connecting with others who understand the condition can be particularly comforting.

    Fibromyalgia in Different Populations

    Women and Fibromyalgia

    Fibromyalgia is more common in women than in men. Hormonal fluctuations and genetic factors may contribute to this higher prevalence.

    Men and Fibromyalgia

    While less common in men, fibromyalgia can be just as debilitating. Men may experience symptoms differently, and societal expectations can affect their willingness to seek help.

    Children and Adolescents

    Fibromyalgia can also affect children and adolescents, though it is less common. Symptoms and management strategies are similar to those in adults, but the impact on schooling and social development is an added concern.

    Fibromyalgia and Mental Health

    Depression and Anxiety

    The chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia can lead to depression and anxiety. Addressing these mental health issues is crucial for overall well-being.

    Coping Strategies

    Effective coping strategies include pacing activities, setting realistic goals, and maintaining social connections. These strategies help manage both physical and emotional symptoms.

    Seeking Professional Help

    Professional help, such as therapy or counseling, can provide valuable support for managing fibromyalgia’s mental health aspects. Medications may also be prescribed to address severe emotional symptoms.

    Myths and Misconceptions

    Common Myths

    Common myths about fibromyalgia include the belief that it is “all in the head” or that people with the condition are simply lazy. These misconceptions can lead to stigma and misunderstanding.

    The Reality of Fibromyalgia

    In reality, fibromyalgia is a legitimate medical condition with complex causes and varied symptoms. Education and awareness are key to dispelling myths and providing proper support.

    Research and Future Directions

    Current Research

    Ongoing research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of fibromyalgia and develop more effective treatments. Studies are exploring genetic factors, brain imaging, and new medication trials.

    Future Therapies

    Future therapies may include advances in personalized medicine, improved diagnostic tools, and new medications targeting specific pathways involved in fibromyalgia.

    FAQs about Fibromyalgia

    What are the first signs of fibromyalgia?

    The first signs of fibromyalgia often include widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Patients may also notice cognitive difficulties and sensitivity to touch.

    How is fibromyalgia diagnosed?

    Fibromyalgia is diagnosed based on patient history, symptom presentation, and exclusion of other conditions. There are specific criteria established by the American College of Rheumatology for diagnosis.

    Can fibromyalgia be cured?

    There is currently no cure for fibromyalgia, but various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. A combination of medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes is often effective.

    What are the best treatments for fibromyalgia?

    The best treatments for fibromyalgia vary by individual but typically include a combination of medications, physical therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

    How does diet affect fibromyalgia?

    Diet can affect fibromyalgia symptoms. A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods may help reduce symptoms, while some patients find that eliminating certain foods, such as gluten or dairy, provides relief.

    Are there any new treatments for fibromyalgia?

    Research is ongoing, and new treatments are continually being developed. Current studies are exploring various approaches, including personalized medicine and innovative therapies targeting specific pathways.

    Conclusion

    Summary of Key Points

    Fibromyalgia is a complex and challenging condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and a range of other symptoms. While there is no cure, a combination of treatments can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.

    Encouragement for Readers

    Living with fibromyalgia can be difficult, but with the right support and management strategies, it is possible to lead a fulfilling life. Stay informed, seek support, and work with healthcare providers to find the best treatment plan for your needs.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • The multiple emotions of fibromyalgia

    “Nothing vivifies, and nothing kills, like emotions”, Joseph Roux

    It’s almost the end of December already and I missed writing a blog in November. Seems I was trying to recover from the many crises (or at least perceived crises) in my life. The physiotherapist (Nick) said my nervous system was “completely exhausted” and to rest. For the past few weeks things have finally quieted down and I am having Feldenkrais movement treatments/activities (I am somewhat certain that Tai Chi would be equally as effective, as any kind of movement) to help revitalize me somewhat. The fatigue is slowly dissipating and with it some of the pain from all the hyperactivity and intense stressful emotions in my life. I am back on my recumbent bike a couple of times a week for about 20 minutes a day now (again!).

    As I write this I watch little light snowflakes outside; there’s a fire in the fireplace; I have just spent 20 minutes meditating and I am at peace with my heating pad on my shoulders and hot tea to comfort me.  The winter skylight is incredible at dusk. Now that we have had Solstice the days will be getting longer. If only there were more days like this, but of course, crises happen…stuff happens. I can’t stop the world. I am working on focused practices such as mild exercise and meditation which is what my emotional roller coaster craves and my brain ( that darn amygdala!) has a difficult time understanding. My brain wants to go on that well-worn path to emotional chaos instead of the new calming pathways I am trying to cultivate. The stresses that many of us experience during the festive season create in our emotions that can make us sick, or conversely could make us well.

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    As I ponder emotional characteristics, it seems to me that there is not an infinite amount of human emotions. Feeling sad, happy, angry, fearful, stressed, anxious,  joyful…while the list seems endless I can see that many overlaps and the one I do best is fear. It feeds on anxiety and brings along with it depression and anger. I know that pathway well. The brain then takes on the powerful emotion and my pain increases. I have often written about the emotion of empathy and that persons with fibromyalgia have too much of it, taking on the emotions of others in an unhealthy way. Now I suggest we try to replace empathy with compassion for others and ourselves while maintaining boundaries with our feelings/emotions that make us the overly sensitive persons that we are.

    What I do well is fret for myself and others. What a small word but one that can keep on stirring up emotions that cause chaos to my nervous system. My New Year resolves to try to choose a new direction when I find myself fretting. I don’t think the brain is as much plastic (some plastic is hard, not soft) as it is elastic…neuroplasticity…so why not stretch it to a happy new place, rather than the old worn one? Here’s to happier/healthier emotions in the new year.

    Best wishes to all those who have suffered from the demon that wants to control us. Let us try smiling and laughing at it since it is what it is, but our emotional capacity to change from fear to joy is more powerful than fibromyalgia. Laughter is the best medicine after all.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Why Fibromyalgia misdiagnosed as Arthritis is common?

    Several years ago I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I was treated with various drugs including methotrexate. The drugs did not really help, but I did have some side effects from them. Recently I obtained a second opinion from a different NHS Trust. I was told that I did not suffer, nor had I ever suffered, from rheumatoid arthritis. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I believe that my current diagnosis is correct and that I never had rheumatoid arthritis. My joints were not inflamed and I did not have synovitis, the medical term for inflammation of the membrane which lines the joints. Do I have a remedy against the NHS Trust which kept treating me for rheumatoid arthritis?

    It sounds as though the doctors at the first Trust may well have been negligent in diagnosing you wrongly with rheumatoid arthritis. They may over a long period have failed to appreciate that that diagnosis, in the absence of synovitis of the joints, was unlikely and they should have checked out the diagnosis by using imaging techniques such as Isotope bone scanning.

    During the period that you were diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, your fibromyalgia was not recognized or being tackled, and instead, you were being given drugs and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis which caused you side effects. In a recent case, a woman received £50,000 in a Court settlement caused because of the incorrect diagnosis and failure to re-evaluate it over a period of time. It is definitely worth you taking legal advice over this.

    https://fibromyalgia-6.creator-spring.com/
    https://www.teepublic.com/stores/fibromyalgia-store

    Click Here to Visit the Store and find Much More….

    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

    Click here to Contact us Directly on Inbox

    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

    Click here to Visit Fibromyalgia Store

  • Overcoming Disability in the Media

    This is an assignment for my disability studies course in my social work program. The purpose of the assignment is to identify different models of disability in the media by reviewing a news article. This one looks at the construction of the ‘supercrip’ (super cripple) who ‘overcomes his/her disability. Let me know what you think of this image – inspiring or unrealistic?

    Learning Activity 3.1

    The article I chose for this Learning Activity describes how a disabled man named Luke Anderson started an initiative called STOPGAP which works to improve the accessibility of Toronto’s built environment by providing ramps to local businesses for free. The primary model of disability employed in the article is the charity model, specifically the construction of a ‘supercrip’. The narrative describes how Luke Anderson was once a star athlete when a tragic accident left him with a spinal cord injury. Fortunately, “Luke Anderson showed that what he has inside is the tenacity to tackle problems of getting around the big city, for himself and others, when you are physically challenged” (Fatah, 2011). The author initially invites the reader’s pity, by, for example, noting how Anderson is now dependent on help to get dressed in the morning. As Withers (2012) describes, the construction of a supercrip is complete when pity is transformed into inspiration (p. 71). Fatah (2011) accomplishes this when she describes how Anderson has not only overcome the challenges of his own disability but is also working to help overcome “the environment of ordinary life itself”.

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    Anderson’s disability is constructed in the article as a physical impairment resulting from an accident. His disability is understood to be a medical problem located in his individual body, which is consistent with the medical model of disability, rather than the result of societal oppression and marginalization, as in the social model of disability (Withers, 2012). Although the author focuses on urban accessibility, the solution is framed in terms of the charity model. The author describes the nonprofit STOPGAP’s ramp project in laudatory tones, with no mention of the government’s failure to implement the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act, which is meant to make Toronto “barrier-free” for disabled people.

    Luke Anderson is a white man with an excellent education. His relative privilege is not discussed in the context of the author’s description of him as a supercrip. No other structural factors are mentioned in the discussion of the accessibility of the built environment. I would have thought that a discussion of poverty and class would have been incorporated, as it is well-known that exclusion from workplaces and educational institutions because of their inaccessibility affects the economic security of people with disabilities. Overall I found this to be a light and superficial discussion of the issues.

    The Ramp Project: tackling access for the disabled one storefront at a time

    • It has become a mantra of our progressive, polite society to insist that appearance doesn’t matter, that it’s what’s inside that counts.
    • But, fair or not, our physicality affects not only the way we live and what we are able to do but how others perceive us.
    • Luke Anderson has been on the extreme ends of the physical spectrum, the ability one as well.
    • As a child and young adult, he defined himself primarily as an athlete. If an activity involved a ball, a chase, a run, a ski, a dive, or a bike — Luke was interested, and he excelled.
    • His physical strength and love of activity dominated so much of his life that upon graduating from university, he moved from the Toronto area to Rossland, B.C., too, as he puts it, “do nothing but mountain bike.”
    • Luke Anderson, speaking at the Canadian Urban Institute forum in November 2011. (Marlena Rogowska)
    • But one day in 2002, a biking accident resulted in a massive spinal cord injury that changed his whole life as he knew it.
    • Anderson lost the ability to walk, as well as most of the control of his hands.
    • He went from being a popular, all-around star athlete, and a pillar of strength, to a young man who needed help getting dressed in the morning and must use a wheelchair.
    • It was challenging to say the least. But these are the times when it is what’s inside that counts.
    • And Luke Anderson showed that what he has inside is the tenacity to tackle the problems of getting around the big city, for himself and others, when you are physically challenged.  

    Just getting around

    At a recent Canadian Urban Institute forum on accessibility and cities, Anderson gave a presentation to a group of about 100 people, who were charmed by his easy, surfer speak and intrigued by his message.

    He talked about the obvious things involving the physically disabled, like wheelchair ramps and push-button door openers.

    But he also opened our eyes to the things most of us don’t necessarily think about — like how difficult it can be to navigate a narrow apartment elevator when you are in a wheelchair.

    Most elevators are big enough to allow a wheelchair to get in, but not to turn around. So if you are in a wheelchair by yourself, you don’t always know if you have reached your floor because your back is towards the numbers and the door.

    Then there is the problem of getting out of an elevator. You either back out and risk running into someone or something because you can’t see clearly where you are going, or you try to maneuver a challenging three-point-turn within the confines of the elevator itself.

    Redesigning the city

    For the physically disabled, there are also issues with those everyday things that “seemingly” have nothing to do with accessibility — like air conditioning.

    Former British PM Tony Blair places a temporary ramp in front of 10 Downing St., the official residence, for a visitor in 2005.

    Anderson told his audience that because of his physical status and the fact that some of his muscles don’t get used enough, he has really bad circulation.

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    So the extra-cool air conditioning in most of our big office buildings and retailers actually affects his health directly by slowing his circulation even more and causing numbness.

    Used to having defined himself by what he could achieve against the toughest of physical environments, Anderson now has given himself a new challenge — to change the environment of ordinary life itself.

    An engineer, with a job in a successful Toronto firm, Anderson is also the founder of  STOPGAP, a group of artists, design professionals, and architects that wants to transform Toronto’s built-up urban environment into “a place where everyone has access to what they desire through art, design, discourse and community action.” 

    The first place he started in was his own neighborhood.

    The Ramp Project

    Despite all the progress, technology, and social will that is out there, Anderson still found it difficult, if not impossible, to access many of the local businesses, shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby, primarily because most storefronts have a single step.

    A brightly colored Ramp Project ramp in a Toronto neighborhood. (Stopgap)

    That is one small step for someone who can walk. But it can be a giant obstacle for someone in a wheelchair.

    So Anderson and STOPGAP began what they called The Ramp Project, a simple but effective plan to build and provide temporary, weatherproof, slip-resistant ramps to local businesses at no charge.

    The materials and money are donated by sponsors and the labor is provided by volunteers. And because the ramps are viewed as “temporary,” they don’t have to fall within the strictures of the building code. 

    STOPGAP hopes that their colorful ramps will become a staple throughout the city, and maybe even other Canadian cities until permanent accessibility solutions can be found.

    The result has been a dozen or so brightly painted, cheerful and useful ramps along with a West-end neighborhood, to help not only people with physical disabilities but the elderly, parents with strollers, pregnant women, people carrying heavy packages. The list goes on.

    That’s the thing about improving our built environment to make it more accessible. It doesn’t just help those with disabilities, it improves the standard of living for all of us

    Research shows a new marker for the intensity of pain, as well as a new area for the target of pain medications – in the glial cells that surround nerves and provide structure and support.

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    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

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  • ‘Smart’ Underwear May Help Prevent Back Pain

    Mechanized “smart” undergarments may be the answer to back pain, according to researchers.

    The Vanderbilt University engineers have created an undergarment that eases stress on the low back and activates only when a wearer needs it.

    “I’m sick of Tony Stark [the fictional Iron Man] and Bruce Wayne [Batman’s alter ego] being the only ones with performance-boosting supersuits. We, the masses, want our own,” Karl Zelik, principal investigator on the project, quipped in a university news release. “The difference is that I’m not fighting crime. I’m fighting the odds that I’ll strain my back this week trying to lift my 2-year-old.”

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    That same kind of back strain got the assistant professor of mechanical engineering thinking about wearable tech solutions.

    Made of nylon canvas, Lycra, polyester and other materials, the “smart” underwear feels and behaves like regular clothes, according to researchers.

    It has one section for the chest and another for the legs. The sections are connected by straps across the middle back, with natural rubber pieces at the lower back and glutes.

    A double tap that engages the straps activates the device. It can also be controlled wirelessly using an app.

    The new device was recently unveiled in Brisbane, Australia, and is slated to debut in the United States at an American Society of Biomechanics meeting in Boulder, Colo., this week.

    To test the undergarment, eight volunteers lifted 25-pound and 55-pound weights. The device eased muscle use in the lower back by 15 percent to 45 percent, according to the researchers.

    “The next idea is: Can we use sensors embedded in the clothing to monitor stress on the low back, and if it gets too high, can we automatically engage this smart clothing?” Zelik said in the news release.

    More than half of adults have low back pain at some point. The condition leads to an estimated $30 billion in medical costs and more than $100 billion in lost productivity each year in the United States.

    Co-investigator Dr. Aaron Yang specializes in nonsurgical treatment of the back and neck at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He’s seen many back devices and usually views them with doubt.

    The “smart” undergarment is not meant to treat existing back pain, he emphasized. Instead, it aims to prevent pain by reducing stress and fatigue on muscles in the lower back, he said.

    “People are often trying to capitalize on a huge societal problem with devices that are unproven or unviable,” Yang said in the news release. “This smart clothing concept is different. I see a lot of health care workers or other professionals with jobs that require standing or leaning for long periods. Smart clothing may help offload some of those forces and reduce muscle fatigue.”

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    Fibromyalgia Stores

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  • Controlling pain with nerve block injections

    The most common way to control pain is with oral medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids) or opioids. Some people don’t respond to these medications, though, while others are unable to tolerate oral pain medications. Nerve blocks are another way of treating pain with medication, but nerve blocks are injected, which increases efficacy and reduces the likelihood of other side effects.

    Nerve block injections allow the delivery of pain-relieving medication directly to the location where the medication will have the most impact.

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    When a nerve block is performed, it usually begins with the application of a topical anesthetic to numb the skin before the injection. Then imaging equipment, such as fluoroscopy or X-ray, is used to ensure the correct placement of the nerve block needle. Often, contrast dye is injected before the medication, to make doubly sure that the needle is placed correctly.

    The primary medication in a nerve block can vary. Usually it includes a numbing medication to deaden the nerves, such as lidocaine. Sometimes a steroid is also included to reduce inflammation. If the nerves or surrounding tissues are painfully irritated or inflamed, a steroid can help reduce pain, too.

    Individuals undergoing a nerve block can experience pain relief immediately, although for some people it may take a few days to experience pain relief. The length of the nerve block’s efficacy can vary from a month or two, up to several months in some cases. Often, the nearness of the injection to the nerves influences how long the effects last. The closer the injection is to the nerves, the longer the medication works.

    Because of their versatility, nerve block injections are able to provide relief from a wide variety of conditions.

    Conditions that might respond well to nerve blocks include:

    A physician will discuss pain symptoms and conduct tests and examinations. This will help him or her determine which nerves are being affected, and it’s why it’s so important to discuss pain symptoms as openly and fully as possible with the physician. For example, a complaint of leg pain is very general. However, shooting pain from the buttocks down the leg suggests a very different condition than aches in the knee joint. More specific knowledge about the type of pain being experienced will allow a more specific diagnosis, which will increase the likelihood that a nerve block will be successful.

    Nerve block injections can be applied to almost any painful area of the body.

    When a physician has determined which nerves are involved in a painful sensation, he or she will decide which type of nerve block will work best. For face pain, an occipital or sphenopalatine ganglion nerve block can provide relief. Back pain may respond to a facet joint, medial branch, or superior hypogastric plexus block. Celiac plexus or splanchnic nerve blocks may relieve abdominal pain. Pain in the chest may be lessened by intercostal or stellate ganglion blocks. Low back pain can potentially be relieved by a variety of nerve blocks, including cluneal, coccygeal, ganglion impar, lumbar facet, or lumbar medial branch blocks. Interscalene or sciatic nerve blocks may relieve limb pain.

    Another type of nerve block is sympathetic, meaning it’s delivered directly to the sympathetic nervous system via the spine. Because all the body’s nerves eventually lead to the spine, a sympathetic nerve block has the potential to relieve several different kinds of pain, as explained by the Pain Doctor article on sympathetic nerve blocks:

    “Reports show that sympathetic blocks are effective at treating pain in different body parts including the neck, head, back, tailbone, and limbs.”

    The placement of a sympathetic nerve block will determine which areas of the body experience pain relief. For example, a lumbar sympathetic block treats pain that originates in the nerves of the lumbar area, or lower back.

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    Nerve blocks can also help people who experience pain after the installation of spinal hardware. This type of hardware may be surgically implanted to treat spinal stenosis, injuries, trauma, degeneration, or deformities. Clamps, screws, and bone grafts can all be used, but they can also cause pain. A hardware block is a nerve block injected near the hardware to relieve the pain it may be causing.

    Sometimes, rather than the traditional injected nerve block, a continuous catheter nerve block is used. It involves a catheter inserted below the skin near the nerves. A small container of pain medication is attached to the catheter, which allows the medication to be delivered continuously to provide long-lasting pain relief.

    In addition to providing pain relief, a nerve block injection can be used as a diagnostic tool.

    The source of pain, especially chronic pain, can be difficult to diagnose. By extension, it can be difficult to successfully treat pain when the underlying condition isn’t clear. For this reason, nerve block injections are often utilized as diagnostic tools.

    A nerve block injection is relatively low risk. As with any injection, there’s always a risk of infection, irritation, or bruising at the site. Additionally, there’s an extremely low risk that the nerve block injection will miss the nerve and instead hit an artery. However, as compared to other interventional pain management techniques, nerve blocks are very low-risk.

    This makes nerve blocks a good choice to test a physician’s diagnosis. For example, if a person is experiencing acute headaches, the cause could be one of several underlying conditions, as noted in the Pain Doctor article on acute headaches:

    “In fact, there are over 150 different classifications of headaches. Given this wide range of symptomatology, determining the cause of a headache can be somewhat difficult at times. Indeed, in some instances physicians are not able to clearly identify the precise cause of acute headache pain at all.”

    However, if a nerve block injected into the occipital nerve relieves the headaches, it can confirm a diagnosis of occipital neuralgia. Then, if the pain returns after the nerve block has worn off, another nerve block injection can be applied. Alternatively, other treatment methods, such as radiofrequency ablation, can be utilized after the nerve block has worn off, with confidence that the correct nerves are being targeted.

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    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

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    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

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    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

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  • How to treat a herniated disc?

    A herniated disc is one of the most painful, debilitating lower back pain conditions. The pain caused by herniated disc is different for each person who experiences it and can even change as the condition progresses. Because this condition can be unpredictable, a herniated disc treatment that works can also vary from person to person. Here’s how to treat a herniated disc.

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    What is a herniated disc?

    The spine consists of 33 individual vertebrae, each stacked upon a fluid-filled sac that keeps the bones cushioned from rubbing against each other. This fluid-filled sac is called an intervertebral disc.

    The spine consists of individual vertebrae with a spongy cushion separating each. The discs have a gel-like substance in them (like the gel in the insoles you put in your shoes or the gel in an eye mask) called nucleus pulposas. These oval discs help the spine be more flexible because each vertebra isn’t locked into another, and they also contribute to the spine’s flexibility.

    When an intervertebral disc herniation occurs, the outer layer becomes weakened, allowing the nucleus pulposus to leak out. The cushion between the bones is gone, and the result can be very painful.

    Over time and left untreated, disc herniation can cause permanent nerve damage.

    Herniated disc causes

    A herniated disc can be caused by a number of different factors:

    • Time: The continued action and pressure of gravity as people age can begin to wear down the annulus fibrosis
    • Injury: If the spine is injured (i.e., as a result of a car accident or other trauma to the back), the intervertebral disc may be weakened and begin to leak
    • Improper use: A sudden, awkward movement such as lifting a heavy object improperly can cause a herniated disc

    There are also several risk factors that increase the likelihood that a person will experience a herniated disc. These include:

    • Age: Because herniated discs can be caused by bone deterioration, older adults have a higher incidence.
    • Genetics: There is a potential hereditary connection to disc herniation.
    • Weight: Being overweight or underweight increases an individual’s risk for developing herniated disc.
    • Lifestyle: Smoking contributes to bone density loss and can increase the spine’s vulnerability to fracture, either from injury or wear-and-tear. Excess consumption of alcohol and prolonged use of steroids can also contribute.
    • Occupation: Occupations that feature repetitive motion and twisting or bending increase a person’s risk of a herniated disc.

    Herniated disc symptoms 

    Symptoms of a herniated disc are as varied as the condition itself, and vary from person to person. Herniated disc symptoms may include:

    • Pain: Pain location varies depending on which disc is herniated. A herniated disc in the lower back can produce pain in the buttocks, thigh, and calf (and possibly the foot). If the disc is herniated in the neck, pain may be shooting in the arm and shoulder area.
    • Tingling
    • Numbness
    • Weakness

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    Herniated discs vs. Bulging discs

    When your back is aching, especially along the spine, you may leap to the conclusion that you have a herniated or bulging disc. Many people use the words interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two conditions. How to treat a herniated disc may differ from how you treat a bulging one.

    Bulging discs–sometimes also called slipped discs–are “contained.” This means that there are no tears in the disc itself, just that the disc is protruding out from between the vertebrae.

    A herniated or ruptured disc has a tear or a rupture and is “uncontained.” The disc is not merely pushing out from between the vertebrae. It is torn, and some or all of the nucleus pulposas has leaked out. A herniated disc may be the second stage of a bulging disc. The vertebrae may have put so much pressure on the bulging disc that it ruptured.

    Whichever condition you are suffering from, the result can be tingling, muscle weakness, pain that ranges from moderate to severe, and numbness. Always talk to your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis.

    How to treat a herniated disc

    Poor posture, age, repetitive motion, injury due to strain, and normal wear and tear all contribute to herniated discs. Sometimes a herniated disc does not cause pain, but it can be addressed generally with a combination of pain treatments, either natural or prescribed.

    What herniated disc treatment works varies widely depending on many different factors. These include:

    For some patients, a course of over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (nsaids) combined with targeted exercise and strengthening may be all that is necessary.

    Step 0: Get a diagnosis 

    Any treatments are only started after your doctor has diagnosed the cause of your pain. Always work closely with them to explain all of your symptoms so they can make the most accurate diagnosis.

    The Mayo Clinic has more information on the diagnostic tests for a herniated disc here.

    Step 1: Anti-inflammatory medications

    Whether over-the-counter or prescribed, a herniated disc treatment generally begins with a period of anti-inflammatory drugs used to control pain and inflammation. For some patients, this is enough to allow them to begin exercise or other activities to heal the herniated disc.

    Step 2: Injections

    Epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks may be recommended for those patients who find no relief with nsaids. These injections target the affected nerves directly. Steroid injections are anti-inflammatory and offer pain relief but have only been proven effective for approximately 50% of patients. Nerve blocks numb the nerve so that other treatments can begin.

    The following video shows you what you can expect during an epidural steroid injection procedure. Overall, this is a safe and effective option for many people, especially while also undergoing physical therapy or chiropractic care.

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    Step 3: Physical therapy or chiropractic care

    Because a herniated disc can be the result of decreased space between the vertebrae, doctors may recommend chiropractic care to help lengthen the spine and physical therapy to strengthen the supporting muscles.

    Physical therapists may design an exercise plan, offer manual therapy, apply hot and cold treatments, or administer electrical stimulation. In combination with pain-relieving therapies, physical therapy can go a long way towards rebuilding the muscles around the spine.

    Step 4: Surgical options

    Surgery is an option that you should exercise only after you’ve attempted other treatments. If pain and numbness persists, a pain management specialist may recommend a surgical procedure called a discectomy. This procedure removes the herniated material that is pressing on the nerve and causing pain.

    For more serious and unresponsive pain due to a herniated disc, your doctor may recommend removing the entire disc. This is a rare procedure that includes inserting metal hardware to connect the remaining vertebrae for stability.

    If a patient experiences sudden loss of bowel or bladder control, this is considered a medical emergency that is often addressed with surgery. This condition can become very serious very quickly, and patients should go to the emergency room if this arises.

    How to prevent a herniated disc

    As with many lower back pain conditions, the best way to treat a herniated disc is to take steps to prevent it from occurring in the first place. There are ways to keep your lower back safe and healthy. Here’s how.

    Exercise

    Regular exercise that focuses on strengthening the abdomen and lower back is the best way to prevent a herniated disc.

    Rather than spending hours doing crunches, exercises that focus on the whole body are just as valuable. Swimming, balancing poses in yoga (including planks), and targeted exercises for the back are excellent ways to help strengthen the muscles that support the spine.

    Eat well

    A well-balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium and vitamin D-rich foods helps maintain strong muscles to support the spine. A healthy diet also helps maintain an appropriate weight for your frame.

    Stop smoking

    Among other things, smoking contributes to a loss of bone density that can contribute to spinal fractures and herniated discs. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, with benefits that start just 20 minutes after your last cigarette. It may be difficult, but there are many resources out there to help.

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    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

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  • Fibromyalgia and Bruxism symptoms

    You may suffer from bruxism if you have an aching jaw, pounding headaches, and episodes of TMJ. It is easy to fix it but you need to understand the having bruxism symptoms and fibromyalgia together, as it will help you in having a better life.

    What bruxism is?

    It is a clinical term for gnashing and grinding of teeth. Usually, it occurs while you are sleeping at night, although there are some people who experience it in the day as well as habitual behavior. Bruxism is most common in adults and children. Tooth or jaw pain, TMJ, degraded teeth, and headaches are the symptoms of Bruxism. It can be determined whether you have bruxism or not by going to a dentist.

    How does bruxism relate to Fibromyalgia symptoms bunch?

    Usually, fibromyalgia and bruxism symptoms function together in two separate ways. In one way, bruxism may be the cause of headaches and jaw pain, instead of fibromyalgia. So, it has to be wiped out from the process of diagnosis. Bruxism may occur due to stress and chronic pain if you are having fibromyalgia.

    A better understanding of Fibromyalgia

    Science is moving forward and quickly getting more understanding of fibromyalgia. Still, no known cure or cause has been discovered yet. But there are some risk factors that have been identified as well as more treatments are available. If you are being educated about the numerous symptoms of fibromyalgia, it can help you in solving this mystery, as it will also help you in improving your quality of life.

    Why fibromyalgia occurs in people?

    The causes are still unknown. Many risk factors have been identified that can develop fibromyalgia. After the age of 18, men and women are likely to develop it, but according to the studies, women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia as compared to men. It is also considered that hormone levels have some role in this condition, as the symptoms tend to decrease but not disappear after menopause. You may also have higher chances of developing fibromyalgia if you have a family history of fibromyalgia. Having arthritis, traumatic brain injury, or immune disorders may also increase the risk of developing fibromyalgia.

    What is the treatment for fibromyalgia?

    It is not complicated to treat fibromyalgia. A lot of medications are there that help you in reducing pain and inflammation. Using pain medication for enabling you and then focusing on diet and changes in lifestyle is usually the recommended course of action. A lot of alternative treatments like acupuncture are also available that are considered to be effective for relieving the symptoms. When you get to know how to manage the pain, you are able to track those changes. So, until you know how to manage the symptoms without the medications, in the long run, it is recommended to use pain medication in the short run.

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    What is the treatment for bruxism?

    It is rare that bruxism gets treated with medication or surgery. You have often prescribed some muscle relaxant if your symptoms get severe, while you implement some other changes in life. You will be given the chance for using all the resources that you have to identify the cause of your bruxism. Even if fibromyalgia is the cause of bruxism, a course of action is preferred that doesn’t involve more medications. A night guard may be prescribed to you for protecting your teeth, while you are engaged in different waking positions for changing stress levels.

    Utilizing all resources that you have

    You have to take care of all your emotional needs while avoiding fibromyalgia flare-ups. Stress and stress reactions are induced in these needs. These can worsen your fibromyalgia and due to which the flare-ups of bruxism can be caused too. Living with chronic pain is very much stressful as well as the fibromyalgia flare-ups that cause stress, as they increase pressure on your personal and work relationships. You need to look for ways to reduce your stress and its effect on your health and life if you have a life with a lot of responsibilities. Keep in mind that not only pain and the bad things cause stress, the stress also arises when you start a new relationship, a new job, or a new project, and this stress is named “eustress”. Eustress usually indicates that this is positive stress and the stress that arises from negative things is named “distress”. Both forms of the stress produce a negative effect from the physical reaction to any form of stress.

    In simple words, the reaction towards stress doesn’t change and your body creates the same reaction, as it can’t tell the difference either you are being asked out by your crush or have to cancel your work due to flare up. Usually, bruxism is related to the high levels of stress in anyone’s life. Stress can be reduced by some changes in diet, with more exercise and seeking support.

    New treatment options

    Open yourself to new treatments and changes in lifestyle, as this is another way to keep your stress under control, so you can reduce the occurrence of bruxism and fibromyalgia. Every day, more and more research has been made in this field. Try new things to find which one suits you the best.

    Focusing on getting the lead

    Your lead is to prevent fibromyalgia from affecting life negatively. Preventing bruxism is the thing that you may control. Don’t think that things will get even worse if you suffer from both fibromyalgia and bruxism. Consult your doctor and find more ways and check which way suits you in a better way.

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    For More Information Related to Fibromyalgia Visit below sites:

    References:

    Fibromyalgia Contact Us Directly

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    Official Fibromyalgia Blogs

    Click here to Get the latest Chronic illness Updates

    Fibromyalgia Stores

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