Fibromyalgia is a condition that can make daily living seem incredibly difficult and sometimes overwhelming, but it’s also one that affects so many people. Recently Lady Gaga told the public that she suffers from fibromyalgia, and as a result, she canceled her tour, but what should you do if you don’t have the luxury of taking time out to rest?
How can you successfully manage your life while also coping with the symptoms of fibromyalgia?
The following are some lifestyle tips that may be helpful to you and even help you thrive despite suffering from chronic pain.
Find the Best Healthcare
First and foremost before you can do anything else when you have a chronic condition like fibromyalgia you should ensure that you have the best available healthcare. You need a doctor who understands this condition and takes the time to listen to your concerns.
You can also join a prescription and healthcare discount program like SingleCare, which will help you save money on many of the prescriptions and services you’ll need.
If you can start from a foundation of strong healthcare and associated services, you’ll be better prepared to take on challenges in other parts of your life. Your doctor may also have to experiment with different medicines to find what works best for you, and this can take time, but if you’re proactive and let your doctor know when things aren’t working well for you, it can be helpful.
Eat the Right Foods
Eating a healthy diet is important in general when you have fibromyalgia, but there are some foods that you can include that may help mitigate your symptoms.
First, fruits and vegetables are important because they can reduce inflammation which causes pain. Also important in a fibromyalgia-friendly diet are lean proteins, Omega-3 fatty acids, and plenty of vitamin D.
There are also some foods you should try to avoid with fibromyalgia. These can include having too much caffeine, dairy and processed foods. Also, nightshade vegetables which include things like eggplant, bell peppers and potatoes can trigger pain, so many people with fibromyalgia have found that it’s better to avoid them.
Exercise in Short Increments
Exercise is essential when you have fibromyalgia, but it can be tough when you’re dealing with pain and also co-occurring disorders like depression. Rather than thinking it’s all or nothing, try to do what you can. You can exercise in short 10-minute increments if that’s best for you, with the goal being 20 to 30 minutes at least three times a week.
Some exercises that can work well for people with fibromyalgia can include yoga, walking, and swimming because they’re gentle and low impact.
Finally, one of the best things you can do for yourself when you have fibromyalgia along with having a healthy lifestyle is to enjoy a massage regularly, if you’re able. Massage can be a great way to relax and also to help you deal with the symptoms of this disorder including swelling and stiffness.