7 Surprising Facts About Fibromyalgia
Similar to many diseases, the cause of fibromyalgia is unidentified. There is no identified treatment or test to perceive the disease. Fibromyalgia affects around five million Americans age 18 and older, typically women.
As scientists continue to study fibromyalgia, interesting realities about the disease continue to appear. The more you learn about fibromyalgia, the more you will be able to manage your condition and feel like you again.
Fibromyalgia can happen to anyone.
It is most popular among middle-aged women, but it also affects men, teens, and older adults. Fibromyalgia can be wrong for other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. You feel tired if you experience soreness in your joints and muscles for more than a week. And have issues with memory. Ask your specialist if you might have fibromyalgia. A specialist can recommend lab tests and X-rays to consider other health problems first.
Treatment starts with you.
Treating fibromyalgia often requires a network of consultants and other healthcare providers, such as a physiotherapist. But you’re the most important participant of your healthcare team. For example, taking an energetic role in your self-care by making time to relax each day. Also, educating yourself about the disease can go a long way in decreasing fibromyalgia hurt and exhaustion.
Alternative therapies are worth a try.
Acupuncture is the old Chinese medicine technique of injecting thin metal needles into the skin at defined points on the body. Acupuncture can help decrease fibromyalgia pain by appealing and unblocking qi. The energy of the body that has “pooled” nearby the place of the needle. Other different treatments that can relieve fibromyalgia signs include tai chi, qi gong, yoga, massage, and balneotherapy. Balneotherapy is a type of water therapy.
Smoking makes fibromyalgia pain worse.
The agony of fibromyalgia hits smokers more intensely. According to a study in Mediators of Inflammation, smokers feel more agony than ex-smokers and nonsmokers. Better control of pain from fibromyalgia is a good reason to quit smoking. To get out of the habit, don’t go on your own. Ask your consultant for termination commendations. Also, talk to an advisor by calling your state Quitline: 800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). The line is staffed by skilled tobacco-termination professionals. They can help you quit.
It pays to push yourself.
When your fibromyalgia flares up, you probably do not move much. But research shows consistent strength training and aerobic exercise can reduce pain. Also, give you more energy. Exercise can also decrease despair and improve your standard of life. Begin with a daily walk and slowly work your way up to moderately intensive activities. If you’re in good condition, even energetic exercise like running is possible. But ask your doctor first.
Sleep helps control pain and fatigue.
Sleep plays an important role in managing fibromyalgia pain and fatigue. To manage excellent sleep habits, get in and out of bed at the same time daily. Cooldown before bed by doing something calming, like listening to soothing music. Ask your doctor about your medicine, if you can’t sleep or you feel tired during the day. Some fibromyalgia pain medicine can help with sleep. Medicines are pregabalin (Lyrica) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril).
No diet can improve fibromyalgia symptoms.
Few people with fibromyalgia report that they feel better after consuming certain foods. Still, no particular diet has been confirmed to help. A healthy and balanced diet complete with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products. Also, less saturated fat, salt, and added sugar will provide you more energy. And aid you feel healthier overall. It may also help you elude other health problems.
