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Fibromyalgia: Managing Flare-Ups

© Tamara Peters

I've often compared living with fibromyalgia to riding on a rollercoaster with its many ups and downs. As the symptoms wax and wane we may feel in total control one day only to spiral out of control the next. The highs and lows may cycle rapidly for some, or more slowly for others. The pain of FM is often exacerbated by both internal and external factors resulting in what we FMers refer to as a flare.The symptoms of a flare may include: profuse sweating, irritability, inability to sleep, lethargy, increased pain, fatigue, and fog. Whatever symptoms we are experiencing at the time will usually be magnified ten-fold.

The dreaded fibro-flare can strike us at any moment - seemingly out of the blue; however, with a little detective work we can usually, but not always, determine the cause. It is important to be aware of what causes our symptoms to flare up in order to avoid them whenever possible. The following are some known causes:

Weather changes: Sensitivity to cold, damp, humidity, heat, approaching storms (barometric pressure changes), temperature extremes, and change of seasons.

As you never know what surprises Mother Nature will have in store for you, and weather conditions cannot always be avoided, be sure to dress sensibly for the conditions in your area. Layer your clothing so that you will be warm when it is cold, or can take off a layer or two when it is too hot. Be especially careful to avoid direct, cold drafts. Cold air tends to cause our muscles to gel (tighten up) which increases pain and stiffness. Stock up on herbal teas, hot cocoa - anything you find warming and soothing for that approaching chilly weather. Of course, if you are living in an area where very hot weather is predominant then you might find this article helpful.

Stress: Physical and emotional.

You cannot always control the stressors in your life, but you can certainly control your reaction to them. An excellent article for managing stress can be found at immunesupport.com. Make a conscious decision to reduce the physical and emotional factors that cause you bodily or mental tension. One way to do this is by learning to say no to those situations that will only increase your pain and fatigue. Simplify, simplify, simplify. Reducing clutter in your life is one of the easiest ways to reduce stress. The FibroFriends have found flylady to be an invaluable help for reducing chaos in our lives. Many people find that owning, and caring for, a pet to be a wonderful way to reduce the effects of stress in their lives. Who can resist the wet, sloppy kisses of a pet not to mention the unconditional love they offer so freely. A variety of stress management and emotional wellness links

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