If you have fibromyalgia, you know that life is 10 times harder. The complex chronic pain disorder affects every part of your day. So how can you cope? It's bad enough that you have fibromyalgia, a painful, puzzling disorder what's worse is that every symptom-- from brain fog to pain, fatique and depression-- hurts not only yourself but also your relationships, work life and physical, emotional and mental health. There's no cure, which means you just have to learn to live with fibromyalgia and take steps to ease its symptoms.
1. Start exercising.
Working out is great for everyone, but it can expecially help fibromyalgia suffers, who often feel stiffness (especially after waking in the morning) and restless leg syndrome. Exercising regularly-- whatever you can manage on a routine basis---can boost mood, ease pain, improve sleep, reduce fatique, improve circulation and strengthen your heart. Among recommended activities for fibromyalgia patients: stretching, walking, yoga, cycling, swimming, water aerobics and strength training.
2. Try various therapies.
Fibromyalgia patients suffer pain more intensely than other people do. They may feel it all over their body or in multiple tender points. Water therapy, light aerobics, application of heat or cold, accupuncture, and osteopathic or chiropractic manipulation have helped fibromyalgia patients, say the experts at the National Fibromyalgia Association. So has physical therapy.
3. Eat a healthy diet.
Eating lots of vegetables, fruits,whole grains, lean meats and dairy also will energize you, lower weight and improve overall health as you battle fibromyalgia.
