Dear Fibromyalgia

Category: Fibromyalgia Conditions

Explore the conditions associated with Fibromyalgia, their symptoms, and how to manage them for improved well-being.

  • It’s not you, It’s me: Fibromyalgia and Relationships

    It’s not you, It’s me: Fibromyalgia and Relationships

    Grab a cup of coffee or tea and get ready because it is about to get REAL! I have my favorite coffee in my favorite cup and I’m ready to talk about Fibromyalgia and the effects it has on our relationships.

    My Story On Relationships:

    I don’t know how many times I have said to family members, “It’s not you, it’s me and I’m sorry for snapping.” This is especially true of my nine-year-old. I have tried explaining to him that I am sick and I’m in a lot of pain, but I’m not sure how much he really understands. Since he is the baby of the family, he has been spoiled (yes, I’m admitting it)! Needless to say, he is used to getting his way and when we try to lay down the law -he resists.  It’s on my bad days that this resisting is not something I can handle or tolerate. These are the days I snap at him.

    Maybe this is the part where you judge me, vocally or silently. Or maybe this is the part where you understand because the same thing happens in your house.  Either way, I get it- I judge me too!  I’m probably harder on myself than any other person could be (hence chronic illness brought on by stress). Before I was really “dealing” with my illness, I think I still snapped but didn’t really accept responsibility for my behavior.  Now it’s different. I can (most of the time) recognize that I just said or did something that I wouldn’t normally, had I not been in so much pain or so exhausted.  So, now I try to apologize.  I don’t use my illness as an excuse though.  This is why I say to my son, “It’s not you, It’s me”. I try to explain to him that his behavior needs to change but that was no excuse for me to (insert whatever I said or did).

    My Thoughts On Relationship Solutions:

    This post is hard to write……although I am pretending you and I are friends just sitting at a coffee shop catching up. The truth is some of the people reading this I do not know at all. It is pretty scary to put yourself out there like that for all to see.  I find it just as scary for the people I do know to read this because I haven’t told them any of this either. HOWEVER– as I said in my post Coming Out, I can’t hide from this anymore. This is just another way to remind me that what I am going through is REAL and not just going to go away.  Fibromyalgia doesn’t give a F*** about my hopes, dreams, goals, or the people I love. It doesn’t care that I need to go to work, that I need to finish school, or that I had plans with someone special.  When Fibromyalgia takes from you, it takes what it wants, when it wants.

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    Taking Care of Yourself

    This is why it is so important to manage stress and take time for yourself.  I understand this now; even though it is still easier said than done. By letting everyone know what I’m going through, I’m no longer fighting this alone.  I have learned so much from others already diagnosed. First, is that somedays you have to take it hour by hour or less if you need to.  I learned that meditation can help center myself and keep my thoughts in check.  Next, I learned that if I can stop living so much in the future I can manage my stress level better. Also, I have learned so much more than this, but most importantly – I learned that I am not the only one going through this. My invisible illness doesn’t have to be something I keep hidden.

    My Not Really Advice On Relationships

    I can’t really give any advice on the best way to deal with your personal relationships when you have Fibromyalgia. Why?  Because I am still trying to figure it out.  Really, I am pretty lucky!  I have a supportive husband and family who understands my illness. That may not seem like much, but it really is everything.  If they didn’t support me, I would be even more lost. So I acknowledge that daily and I am very appreciative for what I have, despite what the illness takes from me.

    My last thought is that no one is perfect.  You may snap at people and that isn’t ok no matter what you are going through. We have to take responsibility for our actions, even if our actions are driven by an illness that others can’t see. My goal is first to be upfront with what I am going through at the moment, especially with my husband.  If he wants to have a stressful conversation, maybe it is something that can wait. Know your limits, meaning learn what pushes you over the edge so that you can stop the situation from getting that far. In my case, maybe I know I’m hurting, so I need to alter my day to only going to one store instead of the three I need to go to. I am hoping that by understanding my limits better, I can lessen the number of times I hurt my family’s feelings.

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    If we were friends at a coffee shop catching up, it would now be your turn to share.  I would love to hear your thoughts and how you deal with relationships while in pain and exhausted.  Please leave your story in the comments.  Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter below so you can be the first to know when new content is published.

    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

  • 8 Ways To Control Your Itchy Fibromyalgia Rash

    8 Ways To Control Your Itchy Fibromyalgia Rash

    Fibro-Rash!  Is this really a thing you ask? Yes, apparently it is a thing.  If you have trouble with any kind of rash all over your body and you have Fibromyalgia, you could also have Fibro-Rash.  I just visited my dermatologist because my rheumatologist wanted me to rule out psoriatic arthritis. I have had itchy skin for many years and just thought it was my dry skin.  It turns out that it is really folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles brought on by Fibro -and I do not have psoriasis-whew!  My doctor said that there are ways to ease the symptoms but the only way to really control it, is to control the Fibro. Sure, no problem that is an easy fix….(she says sarcastically.)

    I’ve always had sensitive skin, so it doesn’t surprise me that my Fibro symptoms come out through my skin as well. People with auto-immune illness and chronic diseases are more susceptible to folliculitis.  So, it makes sense that I really started to notice something was wrong when my flare began.  My chest broke out into a red, blotchy rash which waxed and waned with my stress level. It was like my body was doing whatever it could to get me to stop and notice. I was waking up scratching my legs at night – it was horrible!

    The bottom rash is an example of Folliculitis

    How can fibromyalgia folliculitis be treated? Here is what my doctor said to do:

    1. Cure Joy that I found with a simple google search. Please follow the link for complete directions. I have tried a couple of these, please leave your experience in the comments below.

    2. More Ideas To Help You Control Your Itchy Fibromyalgia Rash

    3. White Vinegar – one tablespoon to two cups of water, then apply to the affected area with pressure for twenty minutes.

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    4. Tea Tree Oil-best for scalp folliculitis

    5. Garlic– beneficial due to antibacterial properties

    6. Aloe Vera-antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. This is the aloe vera that I use. I love it and it has tea tree oil in it already – I apply after a shower daily.

    7. Since I first wrote this article a couple of years ago, I have learned a lot about Fibromyalgia. In the last year or so, I have really been focusing on controlling my symptoms with my diet. I go into a lot more detail (see link) about how an elimination diet can help you improve your fibromyalgia symptoms.

    8. If you want to try an intolerance test to get to what might be causing your rash faster I recommend 5 Strands Affordable Testing, use fibro cure 10 for 10% off. I used this service and hope to write an article on it soon. It really helps narrow down foods that may be bothering you.

    Rashes can be scary, if you have one I recommend going to your doctor. I hope that my story has brought you some comfort and that if you do experience this, you now know that you are not alone. Not only are you not alone but there are steps you can take to relieve the misery. Subscribe to my newsletter and receive a FREE printable.

    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

  • Fibromyalgia and Family Stress

    Most of you know that I have been taking care of my grandparents and mom because of their illnesses and elderly needs. What you may not know is that my grandmother has passed. She was 94.

    This post will not be like my regular posts because I’m still dealing with a lot of stress so I will be streaming my emotions in this piece.

    It has taken me some time to write about this because I’ve been an emotional mess, and unfortunately due to my OCD, I like to keep my mess nice and tidy– especially when it comes to death.

    Death has always been a taboo subject with me. I had a friend in high school die while I was entering my Senior Year. And during that year I also had a Great Grandma and Grandma die, too. I became very humbled at that point in my life because I took the sympathy that people could offer me. Granted it wasn’t much because the grown-ups in my life thought I shouldn’t be hurt or upset since I was young– OR– they thought I should be strong for someone else because I was mature for my age. Needless to say, that part of my life was a mess.

    Moving on a few years later, I lost one of the few people that understood me, my Uncle. It’s been 20 years since his death and people can say that the pain lessens over time, but I know for a fact that it really doesn’t. All that happens is that you find some normal times where you talk to that person you miss so much. But the pain— it’s always there– and full-on when you least expect it.

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    Maybe some people say that the pain lessens because they are used to crying. I can say I’m SO not used to that. I don’t do that because I have kids and they shouldn’t see me that way. They don’t get to see me hurt because I’m Wonder Woman in their eyes. So I can’t cry. My Father was a similar man, but was, and always will be, my Super Man.

    The only times I ever saw my father shed tears were for joyous occasions, and I tend to do the same– unless a sappy Disney movie gets to me. 😉 BOTH my Father and I share that trait to a degree– never saw him cry at a movie– probably wouldn’t want to either since he’s my Superman.

    Tonight, though, I’m sad for a different reason. I’m crying, but no one is around so it’s acceptable. I am mourning for the old times. The times when everything was great and joyous. The times where this room that I’m am typing away in was filled with laughter and food.

    It’s now a study. I made it that way to change things up. I NEED it that way right now because things are still too raw.

    But getting back to what happened today– I just removed what I hope is the last horrible reminder of Alzheimer’s and old age in the house. I went to check on my youngest and wanted to shut her door so the cat and dog wouldn’t go into her room.

    She’s not allergic, but my husband and I are, and we are trying to teach the animals not to be with us at night. ANYWAY, as I was shutting the door, I noticed the latch Grandma put on it to keep the room shut off from Grandpa.

    She stuck it there so Grandpa wouldn’t go in there and hide the bank statements/banking accounts on her because she needed to pay the bills. Grandpa was pretty far gone with Alzheimer’s when she had to do it and I should have noticed it when we took my Uncle John’s name off of the door a few days ago, but I didn’t because I was blind to it then.

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    It’s now off, along with Uncle John’s name on the door, and I feel a little better. Not MUCH because I STILL feel like I’m in HER house and not mine, but hopefully all of that will change as time goes on.

    Stay fabulous!
    Love and friendship,

    Kimberley

    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

  • Fibromyalgia 10 Years Later

    Fibromyalgia 10 Years Later

    It’s been quite some time for me posting something of a personal nature on here. Part of the reason has been that I’ve lost both my Grandmother and Mom within the past 6 months or so. Mom just passed right before the holidays.

    It was not a shock. Your regular blog readers have known that she has been sick with Alzheimer’s for almost 25 years.

    Society has taken a strange turn here in the US. Almost 30% of us are caring for a loved one while having a family of our own AND maintaining a full-time job. The numbers will only get worse as half of us will have to deal with caring for someone with a chronic illness in the next 30 years.

    I found these numbers completely shocking when I was Googling anxiety and fibromyalgia for my own personal needs. You see, out of all the symptoms I have had over the course of the past several years, I’m finding panic attacks to be the worst. And I think it’s because those attacks remind me of what I have lost.

    Both deaths were not shocking, but they still are very hard to deal with. I no longer have an ill person to care for and that’s an empty feeling. I think that is probably the hardest thing for me at this point, aside from not having both of them around to just talk to.

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    When they were both here and in need, I found a sense of purpose in preparing their meals, doing their laundry, and giving them the companionship they craved. I also had two children that needed me for help with homework, meals, and laundry and a husband who needed these things too. Life was beyond hectic and I would often find myself suffering from anxiety the most as my stress levels rose. It had gotten bad enough that I really didn’t want to leave the house in fear that it would surface and I’d be trapped.

    Now that they are gone and there is less of a sense of urgency, I am having difficulty finding a sense of purpose. This usually can be easily remedied with me immersing myself in work, but I honestly have been finding it hard to write. I either lack the energy or nothing seems to sound right. I am even struggling with this blog post. I personally think it’s one of my worst entries, BUT I know there are probably a lot of people out there that may appreciate these raw feelings so I’m going to go with it– for better or worse.

    I’m also finding it difficult to do housework. It seems like I get a panic attack at just the mere thought of doing it. I know some of it has to do with my OCD and the fact that I have a new puppy. She is difficult to potty train and that is REALLY not helping.

    But hey– let’s bask in the cuteness of the puppy– shall we?

    This is Luna. She is a Siberian Husky. We got the puppy for the hubs as a gift. He has always wanted a husky. She is quite a handful. She loves VERY long walks, likes to tug at the leash every chance she gets, is teething, and is BEYOND playful with my Sport. 

    Sport, my Cocker Spaniel is really liking Luna. They get along quite well. 

    The cat Onyx? Well, he’s not all that into Luna and would rather spend most of his time in the basement. But even he is starting to warm up to the sweetness! Okay, here’s some equal time with the cuteness factor. Here’s Sport waiting for Daddy to get home:

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    And here’s Onyx in all of his cuteness and being VERY bad. He’s not supposed to be on Daddy’s desk. LOL!:

    These three, along with my daughters, nieces, and hubs have always been my inspiration to get out of bed in the morning, but after 10 years of dealing with this beast, you’d think I’d have a better handle on my symptoms where I wouldn’t get a panic attack at the drop of a hat. Sure I could say that my illness has just gotten worse, research would back me up. But I’m not so sure. 

    Truth be told, there is a reason why Fibro is called a beast. This thing can be hard to tame– even after having it for 10 years. Sometimes new symptoms creep up. 

    Or in my case– the symptoms are there because my body has not found a way to calm down after being put through a constant fight or flight scenario. 

    Yes, it is true that many Fibro sufferers CAN and DO suffer from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). BUT I do not feel that this is completely true in my case. 

    Alzheimer’s/ dementia care is a unique type of care. You are caring for an adult like you would a child, BUT you have to honor the adult with dignity. Watching someone lose their entire being is probably one of the worst things you can witness. There are others– but this one ranks high up there because you wind up feeling completely torn. 

    This person, when aware, must feel so trapped and you want nothing more than to try and comfort that feeling for them. It’s a battle you tend to face alone because the partner in this might not remember you or their disease 5 minutes from now. This is why stress can be at very high levels with Alzheimer’s. Cancer, heart disease, or any other illness that needs a caregiver is just as hard. I just can’t speak with as much experience, so I won’t try. 

    I believe that sometimes a caregiver continues to go through the fight or flight feelings after your loved one is gone because your body needs time to catch up and process what has happened. I’ve been caring for my Mom and grandparents for over 15 years and I think that does something to your psyche. 

    But even if you have been caring for someone for a lesser amount of time, I think your body has a problem processing that much stress without a release. 

    And when this happens, listen to your body. Relax by taking a nap, soak in the tub, meditate, play a mindless video game, read, write– whatever– but do something that YOU enjoy. Your body is longing for that release. Give into it so your body can heal and get one day closer to the normal you remember.

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    Supplements also help. I’m currently taking Ginko Biloba and Sam-e for anxiety, stress, and depression. I also take vitamin D and B to help with fatigue. And I also crave a glass of orange juice every morning. I stay clear of coffee and drink a good cup of tea.

    Hope this helps…

    Stay fabulous!

    Love and friendship,

    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

  • Fibromyalgia Fatigue Versus Pain. Which Is Worse And Tips For Coping With Each

    Fibromyalgia Fatigue Versus Pain. Which Is Worse And Tips For Coping With Each

    Fibromyalgia fatigue versus pain…….

    If I had been asked which I thought was worse before being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, I would have responded with pain.

    Is fibromyalgia pain really worse?

    Can fibro fatigue really be as debilitating as chronic pain?

    Let’s take a look!

    I was no stranger to pain prior to my fibromyalgia diagnosis. TMJ surgery, a c-section recovery that included an infected incision due to the wrong sutures being used, heavy and painful periods with occasional bursting ovarian cysts, a knee joint that had bone fragments stuck into it are a few examples. While each one was frustrating and painful, each pain had a cause and solution. Yet I clearly remember feeling like each situation would never end. If I had only known then, that someday I would be struck with pain that would never end……..

    The difference between the pain I experienced before my fibro diagnosis and after is that they were single pains. My jaw, abdomen, and knee. With fibromyalgia, the pain may be constant, but it isn’t always in the same area or at the same intensity.

    Fibromyalgia pain differs yearly, monthly, weekly, daily, and even hourly. There is absolutely no way anyone could ever understand unless they have fibro or a similar chronic illness.

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    Types of Pain

    Fibromyalgia produces many types of physical pain.
    Some are examples are:

    • Muscular
    • Joint
    • Nerve

    Fibromyalgia can make your skin feel like it is raw or on fire. Muscles may feel like they have been beaten or are bruised. Joints ache. Each of these pains may affect one or two specific areas or your entire body.

    Although levels may change, there is always some level of pain. Fibro pain becomes a way of life. Over time we forget what it was like to live without pain. It just becomes a way of life.

    Effect on Life

    The effects of chronic physical pain from fibromyalgia are often debilitating.
    Areas of our lives that fibro pain wrecks include but are not limited to:

    Fibro pain triggers depression and anxiety. It makes us angry and short-tempered. Disbelieving family, friends, and physicians create distrust in those we used to trust without question.

    “Before fibromyalgia, physical pain was something that indicated a problem and there was always an end to it. With fibro, physical pain never ends, it’s just life….”

    ~Cynthia Covert – The Disabled Diva

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    Fibromyalgia Pain Coping Tips

    While it is true that I always experience some type of muscle, nerve, and joint pain on a daily basis, I have been successfully lowered the levels since my diagnosis 18 years ago. The key to living with fibromyalgia is to find an effective pain relief plan.

    Keep in mind what works for one fibro patient may not help another! Some people do well following a pharmaceutical protocol. Others, like myself, feel better using a combination of natural and alternative pain relief approaches. And then there are those who have found comfort in a pain management plan that utilizes pharmaceutical, natural, and alternative treatments. No matter which route you choose, understand that there is NO one-size-fits-all pain management plan.

    Fibro Fatigue

    Not to be confused with tiredness, fibromyalgia fatigue is just as, if not more debilitating than pain. Not understanding the difference between being tired or fatigued is one reason I would have chosen pain as the worst. However, now after living with fibro for so long, I am leaning more towards fatigue being worse than the pain. This is not to diminish or make light of the pain that accompanies this wretched condition but to emphasize how horrific fatigue is. Tiredness can be fixed with a nap or good night’s sleep, fatigue cannot!

    “Fatigue makes fools of us all. It robs us of our skills, our judgment, and blinds us to creative solutions.”

    ~ Harvey Mackay

    Effect of Fatigue

    One reason I consider fatigue to be worse than the pain is that depending on the pain there is often something I can do to lower the level or at least find some sort of comfort. But when overcome with fatigue, there is nothing, I repeat nothing that I can do except ride it out. I cannot snap out of it. There is NO pushing through.

    The effect fatigue has on our lives is devastating. It affects our cognitive abilities making it difficult and sometimes impossible to make decisions, focus, or communicate. It truly makes fools of us!

    Pain doesn’t always affect my brain, but fatigue does! Pain doesn’t stop me from writing and blogging. Fatigue has no mercy! There is no writing, no socializing in real life or online, no decision-making, just nothing.

    Fatigue Fighting Tips

    It is easy to fall into the fatigue trap of feeling like the flare will never end. After having so many good spells over the past few years, the flares that returned last year caused me to panic. It takes a lot of deep breathing, meditation, prayer to remain calm. CBD calms anxiety and reduces how much my fatigue feeds on it.

    Preparing for flare days will make getting through fatigue flares less stressful. I use Amazon’s Subscribe and Save to avoid forgetting items my family needs on a regular basis and Walmart Plus for grocery delivery.

    But it was accepting the flare at the moment and catering to my body’s needs that made them easier to deal with. Relaxing and allowing my body’s strength to return as it is ready is what shortens the duration. Doing too much too soon increases time down. There is no way to completely avoid fatigue flares. There is only making the best of it or dying trying to fight.

    My Fibromyalgia Fatigue Versus Pain Answer

    At this point in my fibro life, my answer is that fatigue is worse than the pain it creates. Mind you, it took a decade to change my mind. When my pain was widespread and uncontrolled, it consumed my body and mind. It was only after finding pain relief tools and products that significantly reduced my pains that I was able to recognize the severity and effects of fatigue.

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    Your answer may differ. In fact, mine could change again in a year or two. That’s the most frustrating part of living with fibromyalgia, no two days are alike. There is no getting used to the pain or learning how to work around one or two limitations. It is a never-ending battle of figuring out what areas are in need of help, searching for relief, and constantly addressing them.

    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

  • How to Prevent Fibromyalgia Flare Stank

    How to Prevent Fibromyalgia Flare Stank

    Anyone who has suffered from an extended flare or has been hit with back to back flares knows how bad fibromyalgia flare stank can be!

    Hygiene is rarely discussed in the fibromyalgia community. It’s personal and embarrassing. I mean seriously, how many people, besides myself, wake up and think that today is a good day to announce my stench on social media?

    Personal hygiene is a major issue for the chronically ill and is something that needs to be discussed without shame or humiliation.

    Fatigue and pain are the cause of fibromyalgia flare stank. It is not that we are lazy, but that we have little to no physical strength. Pain makes what movements we can make even harder. The result is going much longer than we should between showers/baths.

    I was recently hit with an unexpected back-to-back fibromyalgia weather flare. The first flare was expected. I began feeling the effects of the incoming extreme heatwave days before it hit. As usual, I began feeling better after it reached its peak. But then something unexpected occurred. A daytime high reduction of 35 degrees (115 on Sunday to 81 on Tuesday) in 48 hours was more than my body could tolerate.

    When I awoke Wednesday morning, my flare had subsided, but my stank was in overdrive! Because of the first flare, I had already pushed the boundaries of my shower schedule. And thanks to the second flare, my stench was so bad that I considered having my husband douse me in liquid soap and spraying me down with a garden hose!

    Although it has been quite some time since I have experienced a fibro flare of this magnitude, I set out to prepare for the next. Whether you experience severe and debilitating flares periodically or on a regular basis, my fibro hygiene shopping list will be of use.

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    Let’s see what I filled my cart up with!

    Fibromyalgia Flare Stank Fighting Products

    Until you have the strength or assistance necessary to take a bath/shower, these products in addition to your preferred deodorant will help.

    • No-Rinse Body Wash and Shampoo
    • Body Wipes
    • Personal Hygiene Wipes

    Keep your pillow, phone, eyeglasses, bed, and other items near you clean with a UV sanitizer wand. Lightweight and easy to use.

    Other products you may want to have on hand to help you get through your flare without totally ignoring your hygiene needs.

    • Body Mist
    • Disposable Mini Toothbrushes
    • Waterless Shampoo and Conditioning Shower Cap
    • Breath Gel

    Stank Fighting Bedside Setup

    Don’t get caught off guard! Have your products on hand and stored bedside or accessed easily. A tiered vanity for your nightstand would be ideal if you suffer from frequent flares. A travel toiletry bag filled with your fibromyalgia flare stank fighting products kept in an easy-to-reach storage cabinet can be used if your flares occur less often. You might even want to consider a hanging travel case to hang from your headboard or wall to make reaching the items easier.

    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

  • Love, Men, and Fibromyalgia

    Love, Men, and Fibromyalgia

    Love, Men, and Fibro

    ***WARNING*** This installment is for readers 18 and over because it contains adult topics. Thank you for your understanding.

    Though this article does not touch on fibromyalgia and love directly I think it is still a very important article to read because it discusses why we women sometimes are not open with our men when it comes to love .

    Something I cannot stress enough, and I’ve stressed it in my books and articles on this subject religiously, is that you have to have open communication with your partner. Likes and dislikes can change over the years– or in a fibromite’s case– it can happen daily so never be afraid to speak up.

    This OBGYN is spot on and she completely coincides with my views about men in relationships. Your man should be asking early and often in your Love relationship what you like. And yes, it’s even better if he asks you to show him. Men sometimes need– pardon the pun– hands-on experience to learn for next time.

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    Hey everyone!  This is not going to be a normal post because I wanted to drop in and post an apology to Y’all! Last week I was involved with a Giving Thanks Romance promotion and some authors were really nice to let you all know about it via social media outlets. MANY of you have been following me on those sites for about a decade (Well… it’s going to be near two in a bit– but who’s counting 😉 LOL!) so I really want to make sure you see this apology. To make a long story short– I was GROSSLY misinformed by the coordinator how many books were involved and once I found out just how misleading the promotion had become, I pulled out my book. I am very sorry that I did that but I live by integrity as you die-hard fans of my writing know and I’d never, EVER want to mislead any reader. I am very grateful for all of the support, emails, PMs, likes, and shares by all of you! Having said that,

    FF: Hi Ali! First off, welcome to Fibro and Fabulous! Please let the readers know a little bit about yourself and your company Norwex. AB: Hi everyone! My name is Alison Buonome but you can call me Ali. I live in Vernon, CT and I am a busy mom to 5-year-old twin boys. I have lots of messes to clean and love my Norwex products. I used to despise cleaning but Norwex makes it so easy and I don’t have to worry about my family being exposed to chemicals! Norwex’s mission statement is “Safe, Effective, Sustainable”. Yep, that’s it. Our commitment to a brighter future starts with our product mission. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice effectiveness or sustainability when you choose a safer product. So we won’t put the Norwex label on it unless it meets all three criteria. FF: What made you decide to get into the Norwex business? AB: As I said above, I am a mom to 5-year-old twins boys. My boys were born prematurely at 33 weeks. I would put my kids to bed, go straight to the bed.

    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

  • What You Need To Know About Fibromyalgia Leg Muscle Weakness

    What You Need To Know About Fibromyalgia Leg Muscle Weakness

    Long before my official fibromyalgia diagnosis, I began experiencing unexplained leg muscle weakness. It’s hard to explain to someone who hasn’t experienced it themselves for many reasons. Sometimes it is painful and for others, it is not. There are levels of weakness ranging from making walking or standing difficult to impossible. It is unpredictable, unstoppable, and debilitating.

    Having not heard of fibromyalgia until my diagnosis combined with it occurring randomly and infrequently, the idea that it was a symptom of any chronic illness never crossed my mind.

    I look back now and wonder how the heck I thought it was normal. Then again, considering how busy, chaotic, and stressful life was during the episodes I remember occurring during my teens and twenties, it makes perfect sense why I would have never connected it to anything other than burnout.

    I continued to struggle with how leg muscle weakness disrupted my life for a decade after receiving my fibromyalgia diagnosis. I was frustrated by not being able to prevent flare-ups and brokenhearted over the events I couldn’t attend because of them.

    Finally fed up with missing out, I began searching for ways to continue living my life even when one or more parts of my body refused to cooperate. Keep reading to discover what I learned.

    I am NOT a medical professional. Always consult with your doctor before making any changes to your health care plan.

    The cause of weakness and pain differs between fibromyalgia patients. However, with most fibro patients there are mitochondrial1 changes (a change in the microcirculation and/or a change in muscle metabolism), that cause pain, fatigue, and muscle weakness by sensitizing muscle nociceptors.

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    The areas most affected are where the muscles attach to bones. While the pain and weakness feel like arthritis, fibromyalgia doesn’t damage joints or muscles2.

    Related post – Is it Fibromyalgia or Something Else?

    What Does a Muscle Weakness Flare Feel Like?

    The pain and/or weakness may be widespread or felt in just one area. The severity of both can vary and are unpredictable. Your muscles may feel bruised, stiff, or lifeless.

    In my own experience with leg muscle weakness, a flare could feel like my legs are heavy like I am walking in water or have sandbags tied to them. Sometimes they feel wobbly and wiggly, sort of like Jell-O. But the most common flare I experience is where they just feel lifeless. Sort of like being paralyzed without actually experiencing paralysis. They lack the strength to stand or walk for more than a few steps. Sometimes this form of flare is accompanied by widespread muscle fatigue that affects my entire body.

    One thing that never varies is my inability to predict or feel a flare come on. They come out of the blue, without any warning, and are noticed upon waking up in the morning or after a heavy fatigue-driven nap.

    Ways to Cope With Fibromyalgia Leg Muscle Weakness

    I experienced more leg weakness flare-ups during the first decade after my diagnosis. I didn’t experience a decrease because I discovered a cure or used positive thinking to wish them away, because neither is possible. Instead, I got to know my body, began listening to it. and most importantly I learned to work with my fibromyalgia symptoms.

    Whether you experience pain or not, muscle weakness in your legs may disrupt your daily life. It did mine!

    Medications

    Your doctor may prescribe medications like an anti-depressant (to block pain receptors) or muscle relaxers to help reduce muscle tension. They may also prescribe one of three fibromyalgia-approved medications.

    I personally find relief each night before bed with a combination of cannabis and a magnesium-rich lotion. Running a few PEMF treatments at the base of my spine also helps reduce the pain I experience throughout my lower back and legs.

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    Rest

    Quite often my fibro leg muscle weakness flares include my entire body, When this type of flare occurs, my only option is to rest. Days like this are spent in bed, lying on the sofa, or in my recliner.

    These are the non-productive days that I have had to accept. I actually refer to them as my body’s recovery days. Because that is what feels like is happening. For what usually lasts for 24 hours, 48 at the most, my muscles feel like they are forcing me to rest to give them a chance to recover from the days, weeks, or months before.

    Pacing to Reduce Frequency of Fibromyalgia Leg Muscle Weakness

    One thing I truly believe led to the reduction of how often I experience extreme leg muscle weakness flares has been learning how to balance physical activity with my actual ability. By ability, I am referring to not pushing to or past the point of what keeps my pain level lower. This can be tricky and is something that I know I will never be able to do 100%. However, by staying within my body’s comfort bubble as much as possible, I can do more than when I was always pushing its limits.

    Riding a roller coaster of super high and low muscle tension and pain levels is exhausting. It is not a sustainable way of living. But by attempting to flatten the track, at most I experience small hills and bumps. The result is taking longer to reach the point of exhaustion and less pain on a daily basis.

    Exercise

    In between flares, I use a combination of muscle-strengthening exercises with resistance bands and aqua therapy. I miss walking in the pool and am impatiently waiting for my county to go up another tier on its phased reopening schedule so that my gym can reopen its indoor pool.

    With my knee caps moving all over the place, walking on land for exercise is no longer an option, but I can tape my knees and get a great workout in water. Something I am looking into purchasing is a therapy pool for my home. I would love to hear from someone who has purchased one.

    Massage

    Massage is helpful when done regularly and not too intensely. I personally find that deep tissue massages often trigger a fibromyalgia muscle weakness flare. Whereas a regularly scheduled light massage relieves the tension without needing a day or two to recover. Talk to your doctor about what they think is best for you, give it try, and see if you experience the same results.

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    Mobility Aids

    There are times when the lower half of my body feels weaker than the upper portion. When this occurs, I can usually use a mobility aid to help me keep up with any plans I have made. Which mobility aid I choose depends upon the level of weakness, whether I will have someone to assist me, and what a day out would demand my body to be capable of.

    My rollator/transport chair combo is perfect when little walking is involved. A wheelchair is necessary and chosen when sitting up is my only option. This option also requires that I have someone to push the wheelchair. My final option is a power chair which will allow me to get around independently. I should have mine in a few weeks and am beyond excited to know that I will soon be able to do more with less pain.

    Final Thoughts on Fibromyalgia Leg Muscle Weakness

    Fibromyalgia leg muscle weakness doesn’t have to ruin your plans every time it flares. With alternative plans or modifications in place, there are many things that we can still do despite leg muscle weakness.

    Learning how to live a life that doesn’t feel like a wild roller coaster may feel restricting at first. However, in time you will find that you will be capable of doing more than you were when you were going full speed ahead. Keep a journal of what you are able to accomplish and your pain levels. When you reach the point of your pain remaining at a low to moderate level, you should find the number of things you are able to accomplish growing.

    What are your current leg muscle weakness coping skills and how are they working for you?

    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

  • Is someone close to you have Fibromyalgia and how has it impacted their lives?

    Is someone close to you have Fibromyalgia and how has it impacted their lives?

    I have had fibromyalgia for 14 years now. It has a permanent effect on my cognitive attention, memory, focus, and movements.

    I struggle almost every day to do simple things as I get exhausted after movement of any kind. In addition, I suffer this chronic at random pain from severe to awkward to annoying to bearable, it varies so much it should have driven me crazy.

    Click here to Get this or Visit Fibromyalgia Store

    It has taken away bits of my personality and especially my sense of humor (as no one would find much joy in constant mysterious sensations however light or intense for a long period of time).

    I used to feel like a tortured body/soul. Without sympathy and understanding from other people, I’ve had to learn to accept this existence still with frustrations.

    I can find relief very short-lived from any therapies(+altenative) so I tend to ignore what my body tells me in order to actually do some of the normal everyday living activities.

    I used illegal drugs but didn’t want to be addicted so I stopped. Prescribed drugs didn’t help. I would do anything to heal from this nightmare.

    Pain starts at the back of my head when I wake up lying flat, then starts spreading throughout different parts of the body. Throughout the day, the pain will decrease and increase for no obvious reason I used the think each time weather would vary I would be affected by it. (I live in England).

    You become desperate to know why you have been triggered by pain sensations. It has generated anxiety and depression as a result. This condition seems to occur to a positive person with a long experience of stress. I would be willing to participate in any health research on the planet to know more.

    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

  • How do I make my husband see, that his lack of belief and support in my Fibromyalgia Condition is damaging to our relationship?

    How do I make my husband see, that his lack of belief and support in my Fibromyalgia Condition is damaging to our relationship?

    There’s only one thing you can do: educate, educate, and educate. Show him websites about it, tell him about it, explain to him how it influences your life.

    There’s only one thing you can do if he refuses to listen: just leave him.

    I’ve got an invisible and untraceable illness too. Mine is called Ehlers Danlos and due to firstly the limited amount they know about it, secondly the fact that they decided to diagnose it on basis of 7 symptoms, and thirdly the absence of most of those symptoms in me, I don’t have the official diagnosis.

    Click here to Get this or Visit Fibromyalgia Store

    My wife had a lot of trouble accepting it too. And I’ve got to admit: it is hard to accept. I am a very vivacious and lively woman, I move with purpose, I talk with purpose, come across as very lively, loud talker, loud laugher, when the music is playing I sit here swinging on my chair. So suddenly when household stuff comes up I’m sick? Hm-hm.

    So yes, explaining explaining explaining

    • Explaining that one test said I only have 15 % of the normal amount of energy. And anything under 70 is problematic.
    • Explaining that I worked very hard to get out of borderline so I could live my life. And I did not do all that to waste the rest of my life laying on the couch as I am doing now.
    • Explaining that it’s no choice but a necessity.
    • Explaining that not having the diagnosis does not mean that I don’t have it, because of the two things I mentioned above.
    • Explaining that I am sick, regardless of whether the scientists are able to pinpoint WHY I am sick.

    And then she’d ostensibly be satisfied and the subject would be settled for a while and then it would come back up. The last time I told her that she’d have to accept it or I’d have to go. Because I can’t live with someone who can’t accept this. And we talked and talked until every little detail was clear to her. And now she accepts it. But it took over a year.

    Some relationships are worth that effort, some are not. You are the only one who can say if that’s worth it. Because you can’t get a guarantee that you can get him to understand it, or accept it even if he DOES understand it.

    Don’t hesitate to contact me if you want to rant or want to talk some more in detail, or if you think your husband would benefit from talking with someone else with a chronic invisible illness about 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