Living with Fibromyalgia - Tips

This is a great article I came across on ProHealth's website. One woman's challenges and victories in living with fibromyalgia. Its very well written and thorough, and I think everyone will find something they can relate to. 

I especially like to point out that of the 17 things she has said help her manage her fibromyalgia, only 1 involves medications. The rest are lifestyle adjustments. Scheduling recovery time and massages are very important to me as well. I have learned the hard way too often about those to ignore them now! 

(On a side note I am curious to learn more about the CFIDS/Fibromyalgia Self-Help course - has anyone else heard of this??)

http://www.prohealth.com/fibromyalgia/library/showArticle.cfm?libid=18589&B1=EM011514F

How to Tackle Chronic Illness

This is really good, well written and awesome advice. I follow this migraine blog and have found it super informational and helpful, as a lot of it also applies generically to chronic illnesses and not just migraines.

Choose to roll your rock instead of carrying it:


http://headacheandmigrainenews.com/1-thursday-roll-the-stone/



I do think attitude can play a big role in dealing with a chronic illness like fibromyalgia. I noticed that once I had some inspiration and encouragement and changed my view on fibro I was a happier and even healthier person.


As most of you know I love the two books FibroWHYalgia (Sue Ingebretson) and How to Be Sick (Toni Bernhard) -- as yes I attribute these two books to turning my attitude and outlook around to alot more positivity.

But take your inspiration from where you choose, be it family, children, books, support groups (local or online, try chronicbabe.com online!) It takes patience and time, but it is worth it to have a positive attitude and persevere :)

Choose to roll your rock instead of carrying it:

http://headacheandmigrainenews.com/1-thursday-roll-the-stone/

Oprah, Dr. Oz and Fibromyalgia!

Its great to see fibromyalgia get this much attention and priority, and it is interesting (and refreshing) that it does not focus on prescription drugs as the main and "simple" solution!

Oprah Winfrey included a discussion on fibromyalgia in her newsletter today. It's wonderful when celebrities give a stage to this topic and Oprah does us all a great service when she helps to inform her audience on this illness.

Her newsletter also included the first article Dr. Oz wrote for O MAGAZINE. In the article, Dr. Oz opens the discussion with four different approaches to fibromyalgia treatment. This is now in their "Best of Dr. Oz" collection. Doors are opening...;-)


http://www.oprah.com/health/Dr-Oz-Treatments-for-Fibromyalgia

1. Western Medicine Approach
2. Energy-Based Approach
3. Psychological Approach
4. Nutrition-Based Approach  (reference to http://www.fibroandfatigue.com/)

More About Supplements!

In this article you will find info on how to recognize supplements, potential risks, what to look for when purchasing supplements, and why its important to speak with your doctor and keep a supplements diary.

http://arthritis.about.com/od/supplement/a/whatdietarysup.htm?nl=1

I want to also mentioned again this website, http://www.patientslikeme.com, where you can create an account (free!) and track all treatments you are trying, how effective they are, and how your pains and fatigues etc. rate over time, and you can print out a report to share with your doctor for each visit!

Please remember to consult your physician before trying anything new. I am not a doctor and no information I provide here should be considered medical advice.The information I share on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.  It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from my research and experience. Links to other sites are provided for ease of research. Information on those sites is the opinion of those who publish the sites and is NOT necessarily that of FibroChick. I offer what I can as help. I believe in educating myself on all my medical issues and being my own advocate, for no one else will do that on my behalf. I recommend we all do the same! I encourage you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.   

What are Supplements?

I found this article talking about what exactly supplements are, on about.com, and wanted to share, since I really lean towards taking supplements for my fibro and cfs: http://arthritis.about.com/od/supplement/a/factsupplements.htm?nl=1

[I also want to mention again this website, http://www.iguard.org/, which allows you to create and account (free!) and enter everything you take - prescriptions, vitamins, supplements - and it then generates any alerts or interactions you nee to be aware of for the combintion of what you are taking. I go here and enter info BEFORE I start taking anything new, to make sure no interactions will occur. I also consult with my doctor.]

Here are some snippets, but the whole article (linked above from about.com) is very thorough.

What is a dietary supplement?

As defined by Congress in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act, which became law in 1994, a dietary supplement is a product (other than tobacco) that

• is intended to supplement the diet
• contains one or more dietary ingredients (including vitamins; minerals; herbs or other botanicals; amino acids; and other substances) or their constituents
• is intended to be taken by mouth as a pill, capsule, tablet, or liquid
• is labeled on the front panel as being a dietary supplement

General Safety Advisory

The information in this article does not replace medical advice.

Before taking an herb or a botanical, consult a doctor or other health care provider-especially if you have a disease or medical condition, take any medications, are pregnant or nursing, or are planning to have an operation.

Before treating a child with an herb or a botanical, consult with a doctor or other health care provider.

Like drugs, herbal or botanical preparations have chemical and biological activity. They may have side effects. They may interact with certain medications. These interactions can cause problems and can even be dangerous.

If you have any unexpected reactions to an herbal or a botanical preparation, inform your doctor or other health care provider.

Please remember to consult your physician before trying anything new. I am not a doctor and no information I provide here should be considered medical advice.The information I share on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.  It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from my research and experience. Links to other sites are provided for ease of research. Information on those sites is the opinion of those who publish the sites and is NOT necessarily that of FibroChick. I offer what I can as help. I believe in educating myself on all my medical issues and being my own advocate, for no one else will do that on my behalf. I recommend we all do the same! I encourage you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.   
 

Fibroglycemia?!

When reading through Dr. St. Amand's book, "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia" I also came across this term:

"FIBROGLYCEMIA" = Fibromyalgia + Hypoglycemia. Basically, that us fibromites are very sensitive and intolerant of carbohydrates.

I can see this, as I have cut waaaaaaaaaay back on my sugar intake, as well as processed carbs (white bread, flour etc.) -- I have tried to follow the low Glycemic Index Diet, and I have noticed I do feel MUCH better the stricter I stick to the diet.

Anyone else experience this, too?

Dr. St. Amand and The Guaifenesin Protocol

Has anyone tried Dr. St. Amand's Guaifenesin Protocol for fibromyalgia? Featured here:

http://www.fibromyalgiatreatment.com/GuaiProtocol.htm

One of the biggest deterrents for people is the avoidance of Salicylates, which is in quite a lot of foods, supplements, beauty products etc.! Salicylates are also found in  many organic, all-natural products - all plants produce it as a protective agent against soil bacteria. Without salicylates plants would never get out of the ground alive. Thus "all-natural" products actually contain more salicylates since they have not been processed out.

I've been flipping throu Dr. St. Amand's book, "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia" detailing things like this.

Curious if anyone has tried and their thoughts on it.

New Sweetener - SUSTA

Has anyone tried this? Here is a review, and mroe info. I have def cut back my overall sugar intake, and when I do use sugar I use Truvia (Stevia).

Anyone tried this SUSTA?

http://nutrition.about.com/b/2010/07/07/susta-sweetener.htm?nl=1

http://www.sustastore.com/index.html

Feeling Overwhelmed?

This is another GREAT article from the arthritis site, and it really can apply to us fibros, too! I know often I can get overwhelmed, so much to do and not enough energy to do it :( I have really had to learn to slow it down and prioritize each day as it comes.

http://arthritis.about.com/od/solvingdifficultissues/a/overwhelmed.htm?nl=1

Bring Sunshine to Others

"When we bring sunshine into the lives of others, we're warmed by it ourselves. When we spill a little happiness, it splashes on us. Hope uncovers new possibilities and shows us what can be done. It wrestles with angels, looks impossibilities in the eye and winks, Hope springs eternal. Hope supersedes all good intentions. Keep going by the power of God's grace. Dare to believe that He has planned greater things right around the corner."

-- Barbara Johnson
from God Always Has a Plan B

Travelling? Try Yoga on the Airplane!

These are great! Print out for when you travel. I admit, I would probably do 1-5 on on airplane, but moves 6-10, well, you let me know :)

http://yoga.about.com/od/lifestyle/tp/airplaneyoga.htm?nl=1

I sometimes have anxiety on the airplane, a little freaked out about flying, but the deep breathing from yoga really helps calm me and the anxiety. Good stuff.

Yoga for Sleep

This is a good blurb about how Yoga can help you sleep better. I love my yoga :)

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/insomnia/a/yoga_insomnia.htm?nl=1

Foot Pain and Fibromyalgia?

Does anyone else experience foot pains with their fibro? That was actually one of my first symptoms. It feels like I am walking on hot glass. I have not found a lot of research on this associated with fibromyalgia. I think in some places they say it is Planter Fasciitis as a co-illness. I have been able to gain some comfort by adjusting some things:


1.) I bought a LAZY BOY CHAIR, and I love it! It really helps to be able to lean back and put my feet up and take the strain off of them.

2.) I have invested in a couple GOOD, SUPPORTIVE SHOES, I bought them from FootSmart.com, and the have some really cute AND comfy shoes!! I am quite happy with them! Still stylish AND my feet feel like walking on clouds instead of hot glass!

3.) I bought a Paraffin HOT WAX BATH ($30 at Bed Bath & Beyond, plus use ur 20% off coupon!) Homedics has a good one. When my feet really hurt I dip them in the hot wax 4 times or so, if feels sooooo good on my aching feet!

4.) I watch my daily activities and LIMIT MY STANDING. Anything over 5 minutes and I know I will encounter lasting pain.

I hope this helps. Has anyone else experienced foot pains with their fibro? And how to you treat it?

Good Fibro Info

Some good fibro links and info here, check it out:

http://www.healthline.com/channel/fibromyalgia.html

Make Someone Smile Today!

"You can be a blessing to the people you meet today. Yes, life has its serious moments. But being just a bit kooky may be the secret to seeing yourself and others through good times and bad. Go ahead, make someone's day - make her smile."

-- Thelma Wells
from God Always Has a Plan B

*hugs!*

Start Your Day in the Best Way!

As we head into the weekend I thought this would be a good article to share:

(from "Fibromyalgia & Fatigue Centers Inc." http://www.fibroandfatigue.com)

Your Mornings…StartYour Day the Best Way Possible!

Rather than awake refreshed from a nights’ sleep, Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue sufferers frequently feel exhausted in the morning. Sleep studies of Fibromyalgia and Fatigue patients show a consistent pattern of disruption during the delta “deep sleep stage.” Because your deep sleep is often disrupted, it minimizes the time your body has to rest, repair and rebuild leading to ongoing fatigue and discomfort.

Here are more suggestions to get you moving in the morning:

    1.    Starting your day with a positive attitude, remind yourself that you will control the pace of your day.

    2.    You now need to begin to loosen those muscles. Hopefully, the bed and room temperature are at a comfortable level allowing you to slowly remove some of your bed linen without causing your body to tense or cramp.

    3.    Stretching exercises while lying in bed will loosen and warm muscle fibers to avoid strain upon rising. Take as much time as you need to work from your neck down in a slow, consistent manner. Avoid any quick movements and never stretch to a point of pain. The muscles may feel tight or stiff, but with repetitive movement, stretching and relaxing, you should feel them loosen.

    4.    If you don’t already know your shower intimately, you should! A hot shower upon rising is a terrific way to treat your body and prepare it for the day ahead. Not only will the heat penetrate your muscles, but also the calming effect of the running water is great for mental relaxation. If someone is available, ask him or her to turn the shower on for you before you even get out of bed.

    5.    Continue your stretching while in the shower. You should see a noticeable difference in your movements while under the hot water.

    6.    Don’t forget to jump start your day with a nutritious breakfast and consumption of your Vitamin and Mineral Supplements. The morning is the most effective time for absorption and for you to gain the greatest benefit with this consistent morning boost.

Remember; give yourself plenty of time in the morning. It’s up to you to decide if it’s going to be the worse time of your day or the absolute best time for you to take care of YOU!

Life Chat Monday - Having A Social Life with Chronic Pain

Shared from from healthcentral.com:

Monday, June 28 from 7 – 9 pm Eastern and 4 – 6 pm Pacific

The topic for discussion will be “Having a Social Life with Chronic Pain,” but you can ask questions or bring up other topics as well. 

Click here for more info on this live chat:


http://www.healthcentral.com/chronic-pain/c/5949/114750/chat-chronic?ic=6042

Knitting for Pain Relief!

Any knitters out there?! I don't knit, but my Mother does, and I know she finds solace and peace and it is a way for her to relieve stress. She found this link, and I thought I'd pass it along, links to forums on Knitting for Stress Relief and Knitting for Pain Relief:

http://knittersreview.com/forum/default.asp

Enjoy!

Easing Depression Naturally

Chronic illness often comes hand in hand with depression. I know for me the chronic pain was depressing, never getting any relief and not being able to find a doctor who understood what I was going through. The one doctor would not prescribe anything to me for pain until I saw a psychiatrist about my depression. I tried to explain to him that I was depressed because I was in pain all the time! If we take care of the pain, I bet the depression will lessen (and guess what, once I started on a minimal pain med it did!) Since fibromyalgia is chronic, its good to know whats out there that can naturally help us keep positive. Here is some info I've found recently:


Omega-3s & Benefits
Studies have been done and shown that taking Omega-3's (also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids) can help with depression.(http://www.cbc.ca/canada/montreal/story/2010/06/21/mtl-omega-3-depression.html) They are typically found in vegetables, vegetable oil and fish. The bonus for us is that they can also boost the immune system and help stop pain! But there are some cautions, so check with your doctor before taking any Omega supplements. (Omega 3 overload can lead to excessive bleeding, stroke, causing heart problems for people with a history of heart conditions, glycemic disturbance among diabetics, potentially harmful to those people who have disorders of the blood or those on blood-thinning medication.)

B-Vitamins & Benefits
B-vitamins can also help ease depression (http://www.reutershealth.com/archive/2010/06/18/eline/links/20100618elin002.html) AND are good for us fibros in helping increase energy levels! But again check with your doctor before starting any new supplement, as high doses of vitamin B can cause nerve damage.


Please remember to consult your physician before trying anything new. I am not a doctor and no information I provide here should be considered medical advice.The information I share on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.  It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from my research and experience. Links to other sites are provided for ease of research. Information on those sites is the opinion of those who publish the sites and is NOT necessarily that of FibroChick. I offer what I can as help. I believe in educating myself on all my medical issues and being my own advocate, for no one else will do that on my behalf. I recommend we all do the same! I encourage you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.

Meridian Tapping for Fibro?

This is very interesting to me. I have tried accupuncture before, I found that very relaxing. But at $45 a session also quite pricey to go too often! This tapping is based on the same principles, but is FREE for you to learn, and you can do it anywhere at anytime :) They say it can help with all kind of things, fibromyalgia, migraines, chronic pain, depression and more. I found some blurbs below and some links for additional info, including a link illustrating 9 basic tapping points. Enjoy!

www.MeridianTappingTechniques.com

Dr. Joseph Mercola, DO (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine) runs the most popular alternative health web site on the planet, and is an avid proponent of MTT, he has stated on Twitter that "An option for excellent pain relief without any of the health hazards that typical pain reliever's carry is Meridian Tapping Technique or MTT."


MTT is not a cure-all, it is not magic and it is not too good to be true, but it has produced amazing results for many people and it is FREE to learn and easy to do. It's a no-brainer.

MTT is based on the assumption that negative emoitions disrupt the flow in the body's energy system. When energy patterns are disrupted due to physical, mental or emotional trauma, it is believed that the path of energy between neurons can be disrupted. Professionals that utilize Meridian Tapping Techniques ( MTT Professionals have found that when people release negative emotions, it may help the energy and photons (a type of energy) flow again and as a result people can experience some amazing improvements in what ever might be ailing or upsetting them.

By simply "tapping" on specific areas of your body that may include your face, hands and other parts of your body, it stimulates your meridian energy system in the same way that the ancient Chinese method of acupuncture has done for thousands of years. In fact, some former acupuncturists have found that they don't need their needles anymore - simply tapping on the right points, without needles, works just as well if not better. 

http://www.whatismtt.com/ 


Tapping Points Illustrated:


http://www.mercola.com/forms/eftcourse3.htm