Suggestions To Manage Symptoms of Fibromyalgia?
I have had a string of health problems over the last year and have been to see 5-6 different doctors to try to obtain a diagnosis. After extensive blood tests, x-rays and evaluations, I have been told that no one knows exactly what is causing my various aches and pains and more than likely I have fibromyalgia.
This diagnosis does not account for the eye inflammation, chronic and severe sinusitus or fluctuations in my SED rate among other things. However, it is the only "diagnosis" that has been offered to explain the chronic pain in my arms.
Since this is all I have to go on, I was hoping someone might have suggestions on how I might be able to manage the symptoms of my "fibromyalgia". I have been told to exercise more. Does anyone know of any other dietary/lifestyle changes that might potentially benefit someone with this condition? I'm also open to suggestion on how to obtain a real, conclusive diagnosis over a catch-all one given because no one is sure what's wrong with me.
Public Comments
1. i was bitten by brown recluse spiders (nest) 4 times aug. 15, 2004. and i have rsd reflex sympathetic dystrophy, lyphatic problems, the bone is dying in my left leg, and im alergic to all antibiotics result of the bites. you can contact me at floridafairygirl@yahoo.comAshley
2. Nutrition is very important with this condition as with any serious physical condition. Avoid caffeine products, sugar, processed foods and fried foods. Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) is often a factor in causing the person with Fibromyalgia to feel fatigued. That is why a good nutrition program is very important, eating frequent small meals with some protein is very important in keeping the blood levels even.
Whole grains, seeds, nuts, yogurt, chicken, Turkey, organic beef, eggs, natural cheese and cottage cheese should form the base of your diet. Accompanied by Appropriate vegetables and a minimum amount of fruit.
A good quality multi-vitamin is absolutely essential with this condition. It's important to replace what the body loses daily. If a person takes no other supplement but a multi-vitamin they're helping to support their body daily. Co Q 10, in soft Gel form, 100mg taken three times daily can help increase the energy.
There's no definite cure for Fibromyalagia but there are certainly many alternative methods that can help you improve the quality of your life. I find that deep tissue massage therapy removes most of my pain. If you do this on a regular basis you will find a decrease in pain.
Physical therapy that is performed at home is very important for Fibromyalgia. Warm water stretches performed at least three times weekly can be of tremendous help keeping the joints and muscles flexible. A Jacuzzi or hot tub is without a doubt one of the best treatments you can do at home, not only does it improve circulation you can also perform warm water stretches in it. If you have access to one and can use this daily you would see a tremendous change in the body. Using a moist heating pad on areas of pain for 20 minutes can ease the pain.
I also find that chiropractic care can bring tremendous relief. I always recommend people with Fibromyalgia seek out a Chiropractor who uses the activator method for physical therapy and pain relief. If you would like to find out about a doctor of chiropractic in your area who uses this method go to http://www.activator.com
Take a proactive role in learning about fibromyalgia to help control it, and be vigilant about following your treatment plan. Emotional support is very important too. Living with fibromyalgia may be difficult if your family, friends or employer do not understand the condition. Seek out supportive family, friends, clergy, support groups or a mental health counselor.
3. Try a Yahoo search for fibromyalgia + "natural remedies".
