If you have been living with fibromyalgia for a short time, you’re probably aware that there are some things that you can do to help reduce pain and discomfort. What you might not know is that there is a range of everyday things that can contribute heavily to fibromyalgia flare-ups.
What sorts of things might those be? It may be different for each person. This article has been written to share some facts on causes of fibromyalgia flare-ups.
Sleep
One of the things that a lot of people fail to consider when they have any chronic illness is the lack of sleep. It’s extremely important to get a good night’s sleep when you are dealing with a difficult disease. When you don’t sleep well, feelings of stress begin to compound, and situations that are normally somewhat benign could end up feeling like the end of the world. Be sure to get at least 7 hours of sleep each night to prevent that from developing.
Stimulants
It’s usual for people to ingest a certain level of caffeine every day. The problem with this is that stimulants can cause your body to have a stress response and stay there until the caffeine is out of your system. While you are stressed out, the muscles in your body can become tightened, which could result in cramping and inflammation. Even more uncomfortable, caffeine can cause bowel inflammation in people who suffer from fibromyalgia, so it’s best just simply to pass on that cup of coffee in the morning.
Physical and Emotional Stress
If you have people or situations in your life that cause you stress, it would be a good idea to let them know that you need a little space from time to time. Setting up healthy boundaries can save you time, and stress and you have the right to let people know that you need to take care of your health.
It’s important to know when to say no and to know your limitations. It’s better to let yourself heal so you can be 100% than to end up sick permanently. Don’t do more than you can do, and you will give yourself time to heal when you need it the most.
Exercise
Regular exercise can often help with fibromyalgia symptoms. You need to find something that will work for you. Low impact to moderate is probably best. Walking, swimming, and biking are all great options. Muscle strengthening could also be beneficial.
Overexertion
You need to limit your day to day activities. Try not to do too much on any single day. Even though you may feel good, if you overdo it, you may suffer for days after. If you can, make a daily or weekly schedule for cleaning or other activities.
Weather and Temperature Changes
Weather changes can cause problems for those with fibromyalgia. You may notice a difference in symptoms when the barometric pressure changes. You may be sensitive to heat, to cold, or to both. It is important to try to keep your body temperature regulated. This could help prevent some symptoms.
Traveling
When you travel, try to add in time for resting. As well as just the act of going somewhere, other triggers can be involved – stress, weather, and temperature changes overdoing it. Having an itinerary could be helpful.
Fibro flares are inevitable. But knowing the main culprits can help you to be able to prevent them from happening.
You may be interested in these other articles on fibromyalgia:
Anti-inflammatory Foods to Eat if You Have Fibromyalgia
How to Cope with Fibromyalgia Pain
6 Invisible Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Do You Have Anxiety? It Could Be Affecting Your Sleep
*Note: the above is presented as information to you. I am not a doctor, and this is not to be taken as medical advice. I’m just one sufferer trying to help and educate others.
