Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that is characterized by widespread pain all over the body, accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and problems with sleep, mood, and memory. While there is no cure for fibromyalgia, a holistic approach to treating the condition can help to relieve symptoms and thereby help prevent it from interfering with your life.
The exact cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown, but many researchers believe that an abnormal level of certain brain chemicals changes the way in which the central nervous system processes pain messages that are carried around the body. (The central nervous system comprises the brain and the spinal cord.)
It is thought that several factors can trigger fibromyalgia, including genetics, an infection, or a physically or emotionally stressful event. Other risk factors include being female, a family history of the condition, or having other disorders that can cause disruption to the body, such as arthritis or lupus.
There are a number of treatments that can help to thwart the symptoms, including medications which are designed to address specific symptoms you are experiencing; there is no fibromyalgia medication per se. Implementing certain lifestyle changes is also key to helping control the symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes to Help Control Fibromyalgia
There are several modifications you can make to your everyday lifestyle that will help to mitigate the effects of fibromyalgia, including the following:
Nutrition
Wholesome and balanced nutrition is paramount for promoting optimal health and function of the body. Consuming a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help to relieve fibromyalgia symptoms, such as pain, depression, and sleep problems. A balanced diet should consist of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, a moderate amount of dairy products, and lean proteins such as fish or poultry.
Exercise
Exercise is important for everybody, but research has shown that it also benefits those with fibromyalgia even though you may find exercising difficult due to pain. Building up physical activity gradually can offer many benefits – and as your muscles get stronger over time, the pain and discomfort can be significantly reduced.
Regular aerobic exercise such as swimming, walking, and cycling can offer better physical function and reduced pain, fatigue, and stiffness. It can also improve sleep quality and help to keep your weight under control.
Sleep
Fibromyalgia is often associated with sleep problems, but sleep is crucial for your health. Developing effective sleep strategies such as going to bed and waking up at the same times each day, avoiding taking naps, limiting screen time (screens of all kinds), avoiding noise and light at bedtime, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals late in the evenings can help to improve symptoms.
Pacing Yourself
Keeping your activities on an even level, and not too extreme, can help to prevent fibromyalgia symptoms. Doing things in moderation is key, as doing too much on good days can increase the number of bad days.
Treating Fibromyalgia and Other Chronic Conditions in Weatherford, TX
If you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition such as fibromyalgia and are looking for a holistic approach to controlling your condition successfully, visit Alpha Care Wellness Center. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained clinical integrative pharmacist, Dr. Catherine Oseni, takes a whole-person approach to healthcare that is centered around each client’s individual requirements. We use a combination of practices, including care planning, therapeutic interventions, preventive health approaches, and regular monitoring, to assure the best possible results and your continued good health.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Oseni, call us today at (817) 550-6332 or fill out our secure online form now. We look forward to helping you feel much, much better.
