Dear Fibromyalgia

Tag: fibromyalgia treatment

Explore effective treatments for Fibromyalgia, including medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and holistic approaches to manage symptoms.

  • Endometriosis & Fibromyalgia An Interview

    Endometriosis & Fibromyalgia An Interview

    In my article What You Need To Know About Endometriosis, I give you a background on endometriosis. This article is an interview with a Fibromyalgia Warrior, Jennifer. She answers questions so readers can see what it is like to live with Endometriosis and Fibromyalgia. She will also give you insight into her tips on how she manages her co-morbid conditions.

    Name and Age:

    Jennifer Coleman, 40

    When were you diagnosed with Fibromyalgia?

    March 2018

    When were you diagnosed with Endometriosis?

    I was diagnosed with endo in October 2008, but it was not a surprise. My periods began when I was 11, and were extremely heavy and painful. I went on the birth control pill at age 11 due to their fierceness.

    Which diagnosis came first?

    Endo.

    Do you have any other diagnosis or conditions? If so, what are they and were they diagnosed before or after the Fibro and Endo?

    I was diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis (IC) in August 2018. I’ve had some TMJ/teeth grinding issues and migraines off and on since I was a teen.

    What are some of the symptoms that you experience? 

    Endo: I had a partial hysterectomy in 2017 so I no longer have periods, but since I still have my ovaries, I can feel a very strong cycle and had to resume the birth control pill post-op.

    Fibro: Aches and pains in the 18 fibro tender points, as well as referred pain. My wrists hurt when I drive my car a lot of days. I was having severe neck pain, which is gone for the moment (myofascial release/MFR, heat, a scarf, and CBD cream help greatly) and in place, I’m having knee, back, and hip pain. MRF helps those too, and I’m about to do another round of PT, which I respond well to. The stronger I am, the better I feel. Once upon a time, I could do a killer yoga headstand!

    Also, fibro fog, fatigue, and sleep difficulties.

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    IC: If I don’t drink enough water I feel IC pain (vaginal/pelvic pain).

    If not already stated above, was diagnosis a long road for you?  Please tell us a little about the struggle to figure out “what was wrong.”

    When my postpartum menstrual cycles returned, when my second/final child was nine months old, they were heavy and long. I tried many forms of birth control, with the hope of either calming or stopping them. After over a year of trying, my OBGYN suggested that I had adenomyosis, which is endo on the uterus. The only way to be 100% sure, and also to treat it, is to perform a partial hysterectomy. I went into my surgery feeling that it was the right decision either way. Adenomyosis was indeed found.

    Complications

    Terribly, unfortunately, my bladder was injured during my hysterectomy. I’d never been prone to UTIs but am now. I’ve had many UTIs and bladder issues since my surgery. Even without my period flowing, I’m prone to pelvic pain. A cystoscopy to check on my bladder about 8 months post-op sent my pelvic and referred pain soaring. Soon after the cystoscopy showed a “healthy” bladder, I was diagnosed with fibro.

    My pain doctor says to think of my fibro onset as my nervous system malfunctioning due to all the trauma. Also, people who have had any and/or all of the following are more prone to fibro (plus I’ve always had a high fight or flight response, which I found helpful, until fibro…): TMJ (I used to wear a bite guard and still wake some mornings with headaches from teeth grinding); migraines (mine are mostly hormonal; I get them a few times a year, no aura};

    IC {that diagnosis is a result of the injury to my bladder. I didn’t have IC symptoms before, and thankfully mine is currently regular}; endo (yes, and both sides of my family have or had heavy periods so I was likely to have them; I have two daughters and am armed with so many women’s health knowledge to help them if they need it}; IBS {mild]. So I have experienced, to varying degrees, all the maladies she listed…

    Are you on medications or have you tried medication for any of your conditions?

    Fibro:

    • -400 morning/700 evening Neurontin
    • -Low-Dose Naltrexone
    • -Nortriptyline
    • –Cymbalta
    • -Ketamine infusions about every seven weeks
    • -CoQ-10 supplement
    • -Daily vitamin with fish oil and vitamin D, etc.
    • –Curcumin supplement (a compound found in Turmeric)

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    My cycle:

    -Daily birth control pill

    IC

    • -Sometimes Urispas and/or Uribel
    • -D-Mannose supplement
    • -Sometimes OTC Prelief before coffee or a meal that might trigger me. Helps me a ton. I need coffee in the morning to combat my meds so I can drive my daughters to school.
    • -Sometimes Aloe Vera capsules
    • -Sometimes AZO

    I had anemia at the onset of my period and in my teens. Sometime in my 20s, my period lightened. I also dealt with anemia while trying to stop my period pre-hysterectomy. Taking iron helped though, a week of PMS and then a week of a heavy period, which was exhausting. In my 20s and 30s, I began only having a heavy cycle every other month. I generally found that the right birth control pill helped my symptoms.

    Did you have fertility problems?

    My husband and I were very lucky and got pregnant within a few months on the first try and immediately the second.

    Do you have any tips or advice to give to others in either getting diagnosed, treated or living with Fibromyalgia and Endometriosis?

    Seek the right doctors; it’s OK to doctor shop! Do your research, but don’t just rely on “Doctor Google.” Find in-person and online support. Re fibro: there is always a new medicine, study, or supplement to consider, and another round of PT or a wellness group to do or join (I’m going to join a year-long wellness group in Feb/March through my pain doctor’s hospital that has PT, OT, an MSW, group meetings, and pain management). We are #fibrowarriors and there is hope.

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    Re endo:

    Find an OBGYN you’re very comfortable with and who understands how difficult your periods are. Experiment until you’re on the right birth control if that’s the option you choose to help you. Being on it has never felt like a choice for me. Also, fertility issues are unfortunately so common, and there is no shame.

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    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

  • 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 Flare-Ups – Four Different Types And How To Get Through Them

    Fibromyalgia Flare-Ups – Four Different Types And How To Get Through Them

    What are fibromyalgia flare-ups?

    Is it non-stop pain that lasts a lifetime?
    Or is it pain that comes and goes?

    Do they include more than one pain/symptom?

    The answer to all of these questions is YES and NO.

    Fibromyalgia flare-ups are difficult to fully define because there are so many varying factors.

    Although I began experiencing fibromyalgia symptoms as early as age 10, they didn’t start interrupting my life until my late 20’s. Because the symptoms were so vague and embarrassing, I didn’t see a doctor for them until my early 30’s. There wasn’t a lot of information available when I was diagnosed with fibro in 2003. Nor were there any approved medications, that would happen a few years later. In my 20 plus years of living with it, I have discovered four different ways fibro flares up in my body and how to deal with them.

    Let’s take a look!

    Scroll to continue reading or listen to post here:

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    4 Types of Fibromyalgia Flares-Ups

    Keep in mind that there are far more than four types of fibromyalgia flares. When you consider how many fibro symptoms there are and all the different combinations that present at the same time, there could be thousands. The four that I have listed below are ones that I experience most often and that also at times, occur on their own.

    • Muscle flares
      This flare is best described as muscle soreness. They feel bruised, but there is no visible bruising. At times the pain is wide-spread and at others, it is isolated to one set or particular muscle. It can also present itself as muscle weakness with or without pain. When weakness is involved, limbs may feel like they weigh a thousand pounds and have the strength of a wet noodle!
    • Inflammation flare-ups
      Flares involving inflammation can occur anywhere throughout the body. Joints, muscles, tendons, organs, etc. Inflammation flare-ups are typically painful. Mobility may be compromised if experienced in the feet, knees, hips, and back. Inflammation in the hands may require the use of accessible tools in the kitchen. Neck and skull inflammation may trigger bouts of fibro fog and migraines.
    • Neuropathic flares
      This type of fibro flare-up creates what I best describe as strange and sometimes horrifying sensations. Examples of these nerve sensations feel like crawling, burning, tingling, and/or numbness in arms and legs. One of the first neuropathic flare-ups I noticed was what felt like burnt patches on my arms, even though there was no visible sight of injury.
    • Fatigue flare-ups
      Fibro fatigue is no joke! Many, like myself, often confuse fatigue for tiredness. But unlike tiredness, fatigue isn’t fixed with a nap or proper amount of sleep. Fatigue overtakes your body and body. There may be pain involved, but it can also be a pain-free experience.

    Fibromyalgia Flares-Up Triggers

    What triggers a fibro flare-up varies as much as the symptoms. However, through journaling, it is possible to find what your most common fibromyalgia triggers are. Some possible fibro flare triggers include

    but are not limited to the following:

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    • Weather
    • Trauma – Physical and/or Emotional
    • Infections or Illness
    • Anxiety
    • Lack of sleep
    • Too much or not enough activity
    • Pain from another condition or injury
    • Scents
    • Sound
    • Light
    • Stress
    • Food

    And this is just the tip of the trigger iceberg!

    Fibromyalgia Flare Symptoms

    The symptoms you experience will not only vary from others who have fibromyalgia, but they will often vary between flares. You may experience overlapping flares as I did for the first ten years after my diagnosis and wonder if it will ever end. Or you may only experience random flares with relief in between like I have for the past seven years.

    The most common symptoms of fibromyalgia flare-ups include but are not limited to the following:

    • Inflammation
    • Widespread Muscle Pain
    • Joint Pain
    • Flu-like symptoms without running a fever or being sick
    • Fibro Fever – Where your skin feels like it is on fire but you do not have a fever
    • Chilled to the Bone – You feel cold for no reason.
    • Nerve pain – Topical and internal
    • Muscle and Joint Stiffness
    • Insomnia
    • Painsomnia
    • Fatigue
    • Cognitive Issues

    How Long Does a Fibro Flare Last?

    Fibromyalgia flare-ups have no specific timetable. They could pass within a few hours or last for days, weeks, months, and even years. However, with extensive journaling and tracking, it is possible to figure out what your most frequent triggers are. This knowledge can help you address the fibro pressure point that is typically set off before the trigger occurs.

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    For example, I know that any increase of 10-20 degrees within a day or two will trigger inflammation around my spine and neck. Knowing this, I run extra PEMF treatments to those areas to reduce the effect the trigger has on my pressure points. This decreases the amount of pain and symptoms that I would have experienced without treating prior and lessens the duration of the flare as well.

    Having an effective fibromyalgia pain management plan is imperative! I cannot express this enough. If you are unable to relieve pain or experience restorative sleep most nights, the odds of shortening the length of a flare are very slim. This is exactly why I was in a continual state of flare for 13 years!

    Tips for Surviving a Fibromyalgia Flare-Up

    You might think that having a good pain reliever is all you need to survive a flare. While comforting, it is not enough. I had excellent prescription pain–relievers during my first 13 years. They would block pain receptors and my pain level was lowered. The problem was that they didn’t address what was causing the pain. Another issue I had was while enjoying that relief, I turned into a manic Super Woman hell-bent to catch up on everything I couldn’t do because of pain. The result was an even higher pain level than what I had before treating my pain.

    In addition to relieving pain, flare survival typically requires a combination of the following:

    Nobody can predict how often a fibromyalgia flare-up will occur. My best advice is to get to know your body, track symptoms, flares, and what does and doesn’t help. This will at the very least decrease how often certain flares are triggered and shorten their duration. The most important thing you can do is to be patient with your body. It needs time to recover and stressing over the flare will only increase your recovery time. Fibromyalgia flare-ups have a mind and agenda of their own, fighting it only makes it worse. It’s better to adopt a comfort and care mindset.

    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

  • Fibromyalgia and Mobility Problems – How to Keep Moving

    Fibromyalgia and Mobility Problems – How to Keep Moving

    Discussing fibromyalgia and mobility problems is apparently taboo.

    Only one of my physicians have addressed the subject of mobility and it was only because I brought it up.

    Then there are the opinions of the general public, and unfortunately, some fellow fibro warriors, who make those who need to use a mobility aid out to be weak or say we have given up. However, as I have stated time and time again, there is nothing wrong with a fibromyalgia patient utilizing various types of mobility aids.

    The sad and funny thing about it is that nobody questions my use of mobility aids when I state it is for arthritis. But their eyes roll if I mention fibromyalgia. The worst part is that we are the only ones who suffer when we refuse assistance.

    But what about your thoughts or needs? We need to stop feeling that mobility issues are only important if they are permanent or acknowledged first by others. Acknowledging areas where we are struggling helps to identify what needs to be modified.

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    I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2003. Since then, I have made many mistakes. And not just little ones! Refusing to accept my physical limitations has landed me in the hospital. It has stolen precious time that could have been spent with family.

    The good news is that I have also learned from those mistakes.

    Today I am going to load you up with information about how fibromyalgia affects mobility, empower you with tips for sharing your needs, and encourage you to let go of destructive misconceptions.

    Fibromyalgia is more than physical pain and fatigue. Muscle pain and weakness can make it difficult to walk and stand. Fatigue and nerve pain may affect balance.

    Fibromyalgia symptoms cause physical stress. Our bodies have to work harder to do what used to come easy.

    One mistake I made early on was pushing my body to do what I wanted instead of following its lead. My body completely freaked out and began mimicking stroke symptoms. After a week in the hospital, tests revealed nothing, and the incident was diagnosed as a severe flare.

    Another mistake I made was walking and standing longer than my body was able to just to give friends and family the impression that I was just like them. This caused my back and neck muscles to seize and freeze. Had I obeyed my body, I wouldn’t have had to spend six months on my back. Six months of should have been spent enjoying time with friends and family were spent on the couch with heavy-duty muscle relaxers and heat/ice, and massage therapy.

    Frozen muscles, dizziness, fatigue, and widespread pain limit mobility. If you are unable to walk as far as you used to, experience additional pain after walking or standing for an average amount of time, or fall often, it is safe to assume that fibromyalgia has affected your mobility.

    My fibromyalgia issues with balance have led to a broken tailbone, toe, and many bruised bones. Each injury increased my medical expenses and decreased my productivity.

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    If grocery shopping feels like a form of torture, fibromyalgia has affected your mobility.

    When and How to Discuss Your Fibromyalgia MobilityProblems

    Before we begin, I want to make it clear that you do NOT have to discuss our mobility issues with anyone. Your health, abilities, and disabilities are nobody’s business. With that said, you should always discuss them with your physician.

    Never hesitate to discuss new or continuing mobility issues with your doctors. Doing so helps them understand how your chronic illness is affecting your body. It may also bring to light other health issues that may have been overshadowed by your fibromyalgia diagnosis. When talking with your physician, be sure to emphasize the impact your mobility issues are having on your life.

    When it comes to friends and family, it is best to inform those you consider as part of your support team. This will help them know how to help you. To be honest, it is okay to share your frustration over what is happening with your body. Be real when discussing your mobility options.

    As for the rest of the world, it is none of their business. With that said, should you use a mobility aid, be prepared to be asked. Because society makes people feel that mobility aids are only for those with an injury or disability that affects the legs, it is easy to feel like we need to defend ourselves. But you do not need to.

    If you do choose to offer an explanation, keep your calm. Don’t tell people to f*c& off, talk in a relaxed manner. Give a simple explanation and move on.

    Ways to Keep Moving

    Wheelchairs are the first thing people often think of when they hear the term mobility aid. But that is only one mobility option.

    Options for balance issues include canes, walking sticks, and rollators. When my daughter was younger, her stroller served as my mobility aid. Pushing it helped with balance and the basket to put my bag’s intake pressure off of my shoulders and back. Dog strollers are another great tool.

    One of my favorite mobility aids is my rollator/transport chair combo. It allows me to walk, provides a place to rest my feet and back, and gives my entire body a break when in transport chair mode. While my family feels it is not as easy to push as my manual wheelchair, we agree that when my need to be pushed is limited, it is the best tool to use.

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    Power chairs are a wonderful option for those who have had their mobility compromised yet want to remain independent.

    The most important thing anyone with fibromyalgia can do to keep moving is to listen to their body. Pacing and not exceeding your body’s boundaries will allow you to do more regularly. Pushing hard and continually running yourself into the ground is guaranteed to decrease your productivity, plus time and ability to do the things you enjoy with the people you love.

    How to Know When Your Fibromyalgia Mobility Problems Require Use of a Mobility Aid

    Many people wait until they can’t do anything before they consider using a mobility aid. In the meantime, they miss out on so much living!

    Signs that it may be time for you to use a mobility aid include but are not limited to:

    • Falling often
    • Not enough energy to complete simple tasks
    • More time is being spent in bed
    • Going out less
    • Growing more dependent on others
    • Pain after simple physical activities
    • Missing out family events
    • Fear of pain that will occur if you leave the house

    Choosing a mobility aid can be overwhelming. Lucky for you, I wrote an article to help you find one that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

    Improving life with chronic pain should never be a taboo subject! Talking about fibromyalgia mobility problems helps us prepare us for the future, no matter what it holds.

    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