Symptoms of fibromyalgia are widespread and can affect your quality of life. Many patients report fatigue, pain, and aching. It can affect your ability to perform household chores or run errands. It also causes a lack of deep sleep.
Fortunately, fibromyalgia is not a life-threatening illness. However, there are some treatments for fibromyalgia that can help reduce its effects. It is important to seek treatment from a doctor or physiotherapist, and to be persistent in your pursuit of treatment. If you feel like you’re not getting the help you need, consider seeking support from friends or family. There are also local support groups for people with fibromyalgia.
A fibromyalgia doctor can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe medications to help you cope. Some of the medications that may be prescribed include antidepressants, analgesics, and anti-seizure drugs. However, you should always talk to your doctor about the medications you’re taking. You may also be prescribed supplements. It’s important to only take supplements if you find they help. You can also try using natural remedies, which are sometimes a safe alternative to medications.
Exercise can also help you manage your fibromyalgia symptoms. Physiotherapists can help you design an exercise program tailored to your symptoms. You should aim to do at least one exercise session a day. Even if it’s only a low-impact aerobic exercise, you should try to get your heart rate up. This can help to reduce stiffness and pain. It is also important to pace your activity, and to avoid overdoing it. You should also make sure that you’re getting enough sleep.
Some patients find that they feel too tired to exercise. However, this isn’t always the case. It’s important to be active in order to keep your body healthy and prevent other health problems. A physiotherapist can show you the best exercises, and show you how to sit properly and maintain good posture.
Many patients with fibromyalgia are also sensitive to certain foods and environmental triggers. In addition, they may have a history of mental health problems, such as depression. Keeping active is important for reducing the symptoms of fibromyalgia, as well as preventing other health problems.
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems can also cause sleep problems. You may be able to treat fibromyalgia with cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you cope with stressful situations. You can also try meditation or qi gong, which can help you reduce your symptoms. Using a hot water bottle can also help reduce pain.
When choosing a therapist, be sure to choose a therapist who is licensed and insured. This will help you know you’re dealing with someone who has the appropriate ethical code. You can also ask for a referral from your doctor or other healthcare providers. It may also be helpful to attend group therapy, which may be the least expensive option.
Some people with fibromyalgia experience remission periods. They may feel relieved from their symptoms for a short time, but the symptoms may return. A remission period is not a cure, but it can help you get through the fibro fog.
