Fibromyalgia. You might then ask, what’s that?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition associated with pain in the muscles and soft tissues surrounding the joints.
The causes are not always that clear to determine. Some say it could be a stressful or traumatic condition, lack of sleep, repetitive injuries, chemical changes in the brain, low levels of blood flow to the thalamus region of the brain, low levels of serotonin and tryptophan, or it’s simply genetic.
People with fibromyalgia may have some degree of constant pain. Yet, the pain may get worse in response to activity, stress, weather changes and other factors. They also may have headache or other deep aches. Not to mention muscle tightening or spasms. Many even have migratory pain (pain that moves around the body).
Those symptoms are very uncomfortable. However, the muscles and organs are not being damaged. This condition is not life-threatening, but it is chronic (ongoing). Those who get it will have it for good.
Yet, the patient should not lose hope. It is not that frightening since it does not progress into a serious ailment, and it can be easily treated. The treatment is focused on improving the health of the person and minimizing the symptoms.
These are some treatments that can be done to minimize the symptoms and to ease the pain, such as:
- Watch what you eat. There is no special kind of diet for fibromyalgia. However, a healthy diet is recommended. Try to consume less sugar and fat. Avoid caffeine. Get more fruits and vegetables cooked lightly. Try echinacea herbal tea to build connective tissue.
- Exercise regularly. Do low-impact aerobic exercises such as swimming or water exercise, stationary bicycling and exercising on ski-type machines or yoga. Start with very low level exercises. You can increase the level little by little.
- Stay away from stress. Some say that it’s a trigging factor for fibromyalgia. So, it would be better to stay as far as possible to things that can get you stressed out.
- Get enough and good sleep. Lack of sleep is also a possible cause. Make sure you get a great sleep everyday.
- Warm the painful area. Cold can worsen the pain. Get a hot pack and put it on the hurting point. Or simply take a warm shower.
- Do some stretching. Stretch just before bed, first thing in the morning, every half hour during the day and whenever you feel muscles tightening. Learn how to do them from your physical therapist.
Spotted Elephant seems to be diagnosed with fibromyalga. Hope these tips can help.
