Archive for September, 2008

Will We Ever Enjoy a Night on the Town? Coping with Fibromyalgia

{ September 27, 2008 @ 6:26 am } · { Fibromyalgia }
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Many of our families have issues dealing with Fibromyalgia. We know about hardships and family trials when it comes to chronic pain disorders. It is often difficult for us to understand what they are going through or even see the guilt they are experiencing.

Our children and spouses don’t always understand why “Mom is always sick” or “why dad can’t make it too that ball game” so it is up to us to help get them educated. There are several places that hold support groups for families of those who suffer from chronic pain disorders. There are also many places Online your family can find information about chronic pain disorders.

Below is a listing of resources to get you and your family started:

National Institute of Arthritis and Muscular-skeletal and skin diseases

Pro Health

Friends with Fibro

American Chronic Pain Association

It is important that you understand that its not your fault. Working on dealing with the illness together as a family can make you stronger. Realizing that you all are entitled to your own feeling, opinions, and vents will help you become more united and stress free.

Remember we all are effected by the illness, whether you are the one suffering, the child with a sick mother, or the spouse feeling neglected and each persons feelings need to be considered. Keep in mind that it is not the end of the world and you will for a night on the town again!

Smiles,

Until next time take it one day at a time!

Sweet Dreams or Losing Steam? Sleep Disorders & Fibromyalgia

{ September 19, 2008 @ 12:00 pm } · { Fibromyalgia }
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Recently I had read an article in About.com that talked about sleep and fibromyalgia. It is a widely known fact that those of us who have fibromyalgia have some sort of sleep disturbances. Whether it is merely getting through the pain, or insomnia we know it all too well. I learned by reading this article that along with the typical effects we have the very real possibility of suffering from other sleep disorders.

Sleep apnea is something that can cripple a healthy person but what effects will it have on us as patients with Fibromyalgia? I researched this very question and found that additional sleep disorders in those who have fibromyalgia can cause more pain! Something we don’t want to hear but is very real.

Participating in Sleep studies benefit not only the medical communities but can assist you in pin-pointing exactly what is troubling your sleep. I am providing you with places you can check to see if you qualify for a sleep study.

Http://www.talkaboutsleep.com

http://www.childrenshospital.org

Additionally I want to stress the importance of getting sleep on a regular basis. This will provide your body with the time it needs to help heal itself making you healthier. Below are some of the signs of Sleep Apneia:

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea are often noticed by others:

Episodes of not breathing while sleep

Tossing and Turning while sleep

Choking or gasping during sleep

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Heartburn at night

Swelling of legs

Getting up during the night to urinate

Chest pain at night

Excessive sweating while sleeping

These are just a few symptoms of sleep apnea if you would like to learn more about sleep apnea visit:

http://www.webmd.com

http://www.medicinenet.com

http://www.sleepdisorderchannel.com

Can Sunshine Everyday Help Keep Fibromyalgia at Bay?

{ September 17, 2008 @ 4:20 am } · { Fibromyalgia }
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According to an article on Pro-Health researchers are finding that Vitamin D deficiency is causing grief to many fibromyalgiacs. The fact is that Vitamin D deficiency can cause pain in the muscles, joints, and bones. While this is still being researched it is a great thought that a simple walk on a sunny day can change the way we feel.

Vitamin D deficiency is quite a common phenomenon. It is present in almost 50% of the population and can be treated by sun exposure and diet. Dr. Michael Holick PHD, MD. Speaks out on Vitamin D deficiency and who is at risk in Pro-health.

Quote:

“Who is at risk for Vitamin D deficiency? Everyone is” says Dr. Holick.

You can see his video on “ The Vitamin D Pandemic and It’s Health Consequences” free at the following link…here at: UV Advantage.

By now I am sure you are asking yourself about the risk factors and Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency? And of course I won’t let you down. Below are some risk factors of Vitamin D Deficiency:

Risks:

Darkened skin complexion
limited exposure to sunlight
Living at the North & South Poles [Winter Months]
Pregnancy
Alcoholism
Renal Failure

Age Groups at Risk:

Infants
Elderly

Symptoms:

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency are not clear and easy to pin point. Pain in the joints, bones, and muscles can be a sign of something wrong. However in patients with fibromyalgia this is something quite normal. Often a blood test to check the level in the blood serum is necessary to correctly identify the problem is best. Low levels of Vitamin D in the blood stream for months even years is not uncommon and can develop into Rickets or Osteomalacia. Having your blood checked for vitamin deficiencies regularly will help rule out any further problems. For those of us with Fibromyalgia we have enough pain and complications without adding to it. Below are a few foods to assist you in ensuring your Vitamin D levels stay up:

Foods with Vitamin D:

Vitamin D. Fortified dairy Products
Salmon
Mackerel
Tuna
Margarine
Egg [Must be whole- Yolk contains Vitamin D]

Also getting at least 10-15 minutes a day of sunlight can rejuvenate your body and give you a good supply of Vitamin D. Maybe a great time for that walk at lunch!