Tag: chronic-illness

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Fibromy-thbusters? Mythbusters Fibro Edition

JoLeave a comment

Top Five Most Common Myths about Fibromyalgia

1. Misconception: Fibromyalgia is just “in your head” or not real.
Truth: Fibromyalgia is a real, chronic medical condition that affects the central nervous system. It’s characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and other symptoms that are definitely not imagined. It’s scientifically recognized and impacts both physical and emotional well-being. Science backs us up on this one, folks.

I can sometimes understand why people might not get it—if I’m having a good day and I’m active, I probably look like your average Midwestern mom. I mean, maybe I should just get an “F” tatted on my forehead? I’ve thought about it. The number of doctors who’ve been dismissive of my very real condition is almost as high as the number of people who are shocked when they hear about my bipolar diagnosis. Clearly, they haven’t seen the rapid mood swings or heard me say, “But you’re sad?” to which I’ll reply, “Yes, amazingly, I can be both sad and manic at the same time, and trust me, it’s a million times worse.”

But I digress. Let’s keep up here—it’s 2025, and fibromyalgia has been a diagnosable illness since 1976. Before that, it was known as fibrositis in 1904, and even earlier, it was referred to as rheumatism. I mention this because, although no one knows exactly what causes it, I’ve been diving into my genealogy—yes, I’m a bit of a nerd—and checking birth and death records to compare what I know versus what I think I know. In the process, I’ve noticed that at least six of my direct ancestors had some form of fibro or rheumatism.

Do I think fibromyalgia will kill me? No—honestly, I have more pressing health concerns to worry about—but it’s been around for a long time. If you come across a medical professional who doesn’t think fibro is real, get a second opinion.
And just to clarify: I’m talking about someone who doesn’t believe fibro even exists—not someone who doubts it’s what you’re suffering from. I’ll say it again: a second opinion never hurts… though, in my case, I had my doctor of 7 years drop me for getting one. So stay informed, don’t get discouraged, and keep pushing until you get the answers you deserve.

2. Misconception: Fibromyalgia is the same for everyone.

Truth : Fibromyalgia is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get. Sure, we’ve all got the greatest hits – pain that feels like we’ve gone ten rounds with a heavyweight champ and fatigue that makes sloths look energetic. But beyond that? It’s a grab bag of fun surprises.
Some of us are walking zombies thanks to sleep issues, while others are living in a fog so thick you’d think we’re extras in a horror movie. And don’t even get me started on the triggers. What sets off my fibro might not even tickle yours.
This is why docs often treat fibro like the ‘rule it out’ illness. They run every test under the sun, and when everything comes back squeaky clean, they throw up their hands and say, “Must be fibro!” I wonder how many times that phrase was said by a doctor to a person who died from something that should have been caught.
Wouldn’t it be peachy if we could all agree on what fibro looks like? Maybe then we’d have a magic pill or a cure. Hell, I’d settle for a flashing neon sign that says, “Fibro flare incoming!” But nope, that’s not how this beast rolls.

3. Misconception: People with fibromyalgia are just “lazy.”

Truth: People with fibromyalgia often experience extreme fatigue that is not relieved by rest. This can make daily activities feel overwhelming and exhausting, but it’s not a matter of laziness—it’s a physical condition that affects the body’s ability to generate energy and recover.
Picture this: you’ve just “slept” for 10 hours, but you feel like you’ve been awake for days, You drag yourself out of bed, feeling like you’re moving through molasses, and even the simple act of making a cup of coffee feels like you’re scaling Mount Everest. That’s fibro fatigue, folks.

This isn’t about being lazy or needing an extra cup of coffee. It’s your body throwing a full-on rebellion, refusing to generate the energy you need to function like a normal person. And let me tell you, it’s beyond frustrating.

The kicker? This fatigue doesn’t play fair. It doesn’t care if you’ve rested, slept for 12 hours, or spent the day binge-watching your favorite show. It’s always lurking, ready to sucker-punch you when you least expect it. And no matter how mad I get at myself, once I’m in a funk its necessities only and they tend to relate to immediate family, so the things I don’t get done pile up until they become daunting to the point that I don’t know where to start so I just DON’T start. Executive dysfunction at its best folks.

So next time you see someone with fibro canceling plans or looking like they’ve been hit by a truck, remember: we’re not being flaky or dramatic. We’re just trying to navigate life with a body that’s forgotten how to recharge its batteries. It’s not laziness—it’s our reality, and we’re doing our best to push through it every single day.

4. Misconception: Fibromyalgia only affects older people.
Fibromyalgia is also not limited to adulthood—children and adolescents can be diagnosed with it, though this is relatively rare. According to the American College of Rheumatology, fibromyalgia in children and teens often presents differently than it does in adults, with symptoms like widespread pain, fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating (often referred to as “fibro fog”). The challenges with diagnosing fibro in younger individuals are compounded by the fact that many of these symptoms overlap with those of other conditions, making it harder to pinpoint fibromyalgia as the cause.

In younger patients, symptoms may be mistaken for growing pains or other childhood illnesses, which can delay a correct diagnosis. The National Fibromyalgia Association states that fibromyalgia in children may be underdiagnosed, partly because doctors may attribute symptoms like tiredness or pain to more common, non-chronic conditions. Additionally, children may struggle to articulate how they’re feeling, which can make diagnosis even more difficult.

Fibromyalgia can occur at any stage of life, and its symptoms vary widely. While some people may have mild discomfort, others experience debilitating pain and fatigue that severely impacts their daily lives. As the condition often fluctuates in severity, it can be hard to predict its long-term course.

It’s important to note that the cause of fibromyalgia is still not fully understood, though genetics, infections, physical trauma, and emotional stress are thought to contribute to its development.

5. Misconception: There’s no treatment for fibromyalgia.

You’ve probably heard there’s no treatment for this beast, right? Well, hold onto your hats, because that’s about as true as saying chocolate isn’t a food group.
Sure, we don’t have a magic wand to make fibro disappear (believe me, I’ve looked). But we’ve got a whole arsenal of tricks to keep this monster at bay. It’s like playing whack-a-mole with your symptoms, but hey, at least we’re not sitting ducks!
First up, we’ve got meds. From your garden variety pain killers to fancy-pants antidepressants and anti-seizure meds, there’s a buffet of options. These bad boys can help tame the pain and maybe even let you catch some Z’s without feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck.
Then there’s physical therapy and exercise. I know, I know, the thought of moving when everything hurts is about as appealing as a root canal. But trust me, a little moderate exercise can work wonders. It’s like giving your body a tune-up.


And let’s not forget about the mind game. Cognitive-behavioral therapy isn’t just for when you’re feeling blue. It’s like a personal trainer for your brain, helping you outsmart the pain and stress.
Now, for the lifestyle changes. Getting enough rest, eating right, and practicing good sleep hygiene might sound like advice your grandma would give, but don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it. It’s amazing what a difference these can make.
For those feeling a bit adventurous, there’s always acupuncture and massage. It’s like a spa day, but with actual health benefits. Who knew getting poked with needles could feel so good?
The key here, my fellow fibro warriors, is to mix and match. It’s like creating your own personal fibro-fighting cocktail. What works for me might not work for you, and that’s okay. We’re all unique snowflakes in this blizzard of pain.So don’t let anyone tell you there’s no hope. We might not have a cure (yet), but we’ve got options. And in this fibro fight, options are our secret weapon. Now, go forth and conquer my friends, Until next time take care of yourselves, and each other.

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Fibromyalgia Flare-Ups: Because Who Needs a Predictable Schedule?

JoLeave a comment

Ah, fibromyalgia flare-ups—the unpredictable, uninvited guests that crash our daily plans with the grace of a bull in a china shop. One minute, you’re checking off items on your to-do list, and the next, you’re grappling with a tidal wave of pain, fatigue, and brain fog. If you’re living with fibromyalgia, you know all too well how these flare-ups can wreak havoc on your daily routines. But fear not! There are ways to manage the chaos with a mix of practical strategies and a touch of humor.

Understanding Fibromyalgia Flare-Ups (Or: Why Your Body Hates You)

Fibromyalgia is like that annoying friend who shows up uninvited and brings a bunch of rowdy guests – pain, fatigue, and brain fog. A flare-up is when these uninvited guests decide to throw a rager in your body. Triggers? Oh honey, it could be anything from stress to the weather changing its mind faster than a toddler in a candy store.

Key Insights:

  1. Flare-Ups Aren’t Always Predictable: Research published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology highlights that fibromyalgia symptoms can vary significantly in intensity and duration, making it challenging to plan activities around them. Will today be a “I can conquer the world” day or a “I can’t even conquer putting on pants” day? Spin the wheel and find out!
  2. Stress Plays a Major Role: According to the Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Comprehensive Approach study, stress is a significant trigger for flare-ups. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can help mitigate the severity of symptoms. Turns out, stress is like fuel for your fibro fire. So try to relax… which is totally easy when you’re in pain, right?
  3. Weather Sensitivity: The Arthritis & Rheumatology journal notes that some fibromyalgia patients are sensitive to weather changes, which can exacerbate pain. However, the exact relationship between weather and flare-ups remains an area of ongoing research. Some fibro warriors are walking, talking weather predictors. Who needs a meteorologist when your joints can tell you it’s about to rain?

Tips for Surviving the Fibro Fiesta

  1. Embrace the Chaos: Plan A, Plan B, Plan “Fuck It, I’m Staying in Bed.”
  2. Journal Like a Teen with a Crush: Document every twinge, ache, and “why me?” moment. It’s like detective work, but less fun and more painful. Keeping a symptom journal is also advisable because what if its not fibro? The more info you have when trouble hits, the more you can tell the doc maybe its a tweak in meds, maybe its something else entirely.
  3. Self-Care is Not Selfish: Prioritize yourself. Take that nap, do that gentle yoga, or just stare at the wall contemplating the meaning of life. It’s all valid.
    The American College of Rheumatology suggests incorporating mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques into your routine.
  4. Set Realistic Goals: Like “get dressed today” or “remember why I walked into this room.”
    Break tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. This way, you can achieve your goals without overexerting yourself. Celebrate small victories, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t accomplish everything on your list.
  5. Pain Management Roulette: Hot baths, massages, meds – try them all and see what sticks. It’s like a spa day, but with more wincing.
    The National Fibromyalgia Association emphasizes that a combination of treatments often works best.

  6. Find Your Tribe: Connect with other fibro warriors. Misery loves company, especially when that company gets why you’re canceling plans for the fifth time this week.
    Join a support group or online community where you can share experiences and gain advice from those who get it.
  7. Stay Informed: Keep up with fibro research. It’s like following celebrity gossip, but the celebrity is your own body. This knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and treatment plan.
  8. Communicate: Let people know when you’re having a bad day. Most people are understanding, and if they’re not, well, that’s what voodoo dolls are for. Let your family, friends, and colleagues know when you’re having a tough day. Most people are more understanding than you might expect.

A tale of grocery store glory gone wrong…

There I was, feeling like a damn superhero, armed with a shopping list and the misguided optimism of someone who’s forgotten they have fibromyalgia.I’m cruising through the aisles, tossing items into my cart like I’m on some twisted version of Supermarket Sweep. I’m on fire, baby! I’ve got a week’s worth of meals planned, and I’m actually remembering to buy vegetables that aren’t just potato chips. Look at me adulting like a boss!

But then, because the universe has a sick sense of humor, my right hip decides it’s the perfect moment to stage a revolt. It was as if my nerve on that side was a live wire that was getting repeatedly squeezed like a cartoon character. Out of fucking nowhere, it feels like a rabid badger has set up shop in my joint and is throwing a rave. One second I’m contemplating the merits of Frosted Flakes versus Froot Loops, and the next I’m clinging to my shopping cart like Rose clung to that door in Titanic.

Every step is like walking on Legos while being stabbed by a thousand tiny ninjas. The fluorescent lights are suddenly brighter than the sun, turning the store into a hellish disco of pain. My carefully crafted plan of “shop and go home to Netflix” is rapidly morphing into “try not to pass out in the cereal aisle.”

As I’m limping towards the checkout, looking like a drunk flamingo pushing a cart, I can’t help but laugh at the absurdity. Here I am, in the middle of Kroger, putting on a show that’s part wounded animal, part determined shopper. But hey, if you can’t laugh at your body’s betrayal in the frozen food section, when can you laugh?

So there you have it, folks. Another day in the life of a fibro warrior, where even a simple shopping trip can turn into an epic battle against your own rebellious body. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go home and ice my hip while eating the comfort snacks I panic-bought during my pain-induced haze. Because nothing says “self-care” quite like ice cream and ibuprofen, am I right? Til next time gang, take care of yourselves, and each other.

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Help From My Friends, yes YOU!

JoLeave a comment

Alright, listen up you badass warriors battling chronic health issues! We’re about to get real about why having a solid support system is crucial for not losing your fucking mind.

First off, let’s be honest – chronic health conditions are a colossal pain in the ass, both physically and emotionally. One minute you’re cruising along, feeling like you’ve got a handle on this whole “life” thing, and the next, your body is pulling some straight-up sabotage moves that leave you feeling like a hot mess express. That’s where your support squad comes in – those ride-or-die homies who get it, empathize with your situation, and offer the kind of emotional support that’s better than any overpriced therapy session.

But it’s not just about the warm fuzzies, folks. Your support system is also a lifeline when it comes to practical shit. Need someone to help with daily tasks that suddenly feel like climbing Mount Everest? Bam, your crew’s got your back. Need a ride to yet another doctor’s appointment where you’ll inevitably be poked and prodded like a human pin-cushion? Your support squad is there to chauffeur your ass and make sure you don’t get lost in the labyrinth of the medical-industrial complex. Not to mention the opportunity for some EPIC road trips!

Speaking of navigating that shitshow, having a support network can be a game-changer when it comes to knowledge and information. Chances are, someone in your crew has been through a similar health struggle or knows someone who has, which means they’ve got insider intel on treatments, therapies, and coping strategies that could make your life a whole lot easier. It’s like having a cheat code for managing your condition without having to spend hours scouring the depths of WebMD and scaring the crap out of yourself.

But wait, there’s more! Being part of a supportive community isn’t just about the practical perks – it’s also a lifeline for your mental health. Chronic health issues can be a lonely, isolating journey, especially when the people around you just don’t get it. Having a crew of fellow warriors who’ve been there, done that, and got the battle scars to prove it? That’s the kind of solidarity and mutual understanding that can make you feel like you’re not alone in this shitshow.

And let’s not forget the most important benefit of all: a support system can be the ultimate confidence booster and source of resilience. Dealing with chronic health issues often means navigating complex healthcare systems, advocating for your needs, and persevering through setbacks that would make even the toughest badass want to throw in the towel. But with your crew in your corner, cheering you on and reminding you of your inner strength, you’ll be unstoppable. It’s like having your own personal hype squad, but instead of cheering you on at a lame sporting event, they’re helping you slay the dragon that is chronic illness.

So, to all you warriors out there battling chronic health issues, remember: building and nurturing a solid support system isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a fucking necessity. Surround yourself with people who get it, lift you up, and remind you that you’re a total badass, even on your worst days. Because at the end of the day, having that crew in your corner might just be the secret weapon you need to conquer this shitshow and come out on top. Thats why we need to come together guys, this sick nonsense can be tackled alone but shouldn’t. Reach out. Til next time gang, take care of yourself, and each other!

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Loki of the medical world…

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Much like Loki of Asgard (who was burdened with glorious purpose) that prankster fibromyalgia (who, for all we know is just doing this shit for funsies) just loves messing with us, doesn’t it? Its idea of a good time is replacing all the words in our brain with radio static for a rousing game of “What Did I Come Into This Room For?” Talk about a comedic fibro fog party trick!

And let’s not forget fibromyalgia’s classic prank of swapping out our skin for sandpaper while we sleep. Waking up feeling like we got a full-body exfoliation treatment from Edward Scissorhands? Chef’s kiss to that hilarious bit of tomfoolery!

Then there’s the ol’ random full-body ache for no damn reason gag. You’re just going about your day when BAM – it’s like you got hit by a truck carrying a cargo of pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia’s version of the old “kick me” sign prank, but way less funny.

Sometimes it gets super creative by hiding all our energy reserves like George stashing nuts. Suddenly basic tasks like showering feel as exhausting as running a marathon. Thanks for that delightful prank, fibro – really keeps us on our toes!

But fibromyalgia’s pièce de résistance has to be the sensory overload prank. One minute you’re fine, the next it’s like all your senses got turned up to 11. Lights are blinding, sounds are deafening, and tags on your clothes may as well be made of cacti. Now THAT’S a practical joke that really sticks the landing!

Fibromyalgia really gets a kick out of the old “hide and seek” game with our energy levels. One minute we’ve got enough gas in the tank to run errands, the next it’s disappeared without a trace! Good luck trying to locate those missing spoons to accomplish basic tasks

And let’s not forget fibro’s classic bait-and-switch prank of luring us in with a decent night’s sleep, only to cruelly snatch it away with a morning of feeling more exhausted than if we pulled an all-nighter. Tricking us into thinking we’ve finally beaten insomnia is such a knee-slapper for this prankster condition

Prankster Fibromyalgia is out here giving Loki a run for his money. But we know all this. And knowing is power (knowing is half the battle? I don’t know, insert your own 80s slogan lol) Now if we could just fix these things, well, maybe we DID fix all the things and we forgot where we put the answers. That sounds like something we’d do. You guys go look for that, I gotta go see where George ran off to with that, I might need it. Take care of yourselves, and each other!

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Fibro be makin me crazy… or crazy makin me fibro?…

JoLeave a comment

Fibromyalgia, the condition that makes “chronic pain” seem like an understatement, often comes with a side order of psychological hurdles, courtesy of our good friend, solitude. Picture this: you’re in a constant battle with your own body, and just when you think you’ve reached an understanding, your social life decides to pack its bags and take a vacation to “nowhere in sight.”

Isolation, the VIP section of the fibromyalgia club, isn’t exactly a coveted spot. Between canceling plans last minute because your body decided to throw a tantrum and having to explain for the umpteenth time why you can’t just “shake it off,” it’s no wonder you’re left feeling like the lone wolf in a pack of social butterflies.

Loneliness, the emotional equivalent of trying to find Waldo in a sea of blank stares, becomes your not-so-trusty sidekick on this rollercoaster ride. Who needs friends when you have your trusty heating pad and a Netflix subscription, right? But let’s be real, even the most dedicated binge-watcher can’t fill the void of genuine human connection.

Feeling misunderstood? Welcome to the fibromyalgia Olympics, where everyone’s a gold medalist in the sport of not getting it. Because nothing says “fun” like trying to explain why you’re tired all the time to someone who thinks a good night’s sleep can cure anything from a broken heart to a broken leg.

In conclusion, the psychological effects of solitude on individuals with fibromyalgia are about as enjoyable as a root canal without anesthesia. But fear not, fellow fibro warriors, for in the midst of the chaos and the pain, there’s humor to be found. So, here’s to finding solace in laughter, camaraderie in shared experiences, and the occasional eye roll at well-meaning but clueless bystanders. After all, if you can’t laugh in the face of adversity, what’s the point? Take care of yourself, and each other.

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Fibro and friends…

JoLeave a comment

Ah, relationships and fibromyalgia, the ultimate test of love and patience. Because what better way to spice up your romantic life than with a chronic pain condition that’s about as predictable as the weather forecast in the Midwest in May?

Picture this: you’re all snuggled up on the couch, ready for a cozy night in with your significant other. But instead of Netflix and chill, it’s more like a game of “Find the Least Painful Position” as you try to avoid triggering a fibro flare-up every time they accidentally bump into you. Ah, romance.

Also, the timeless struggle of elucidating fibromyalgia to your significant other without coming off like a wannabe actor on Grey’s Anatomy. “Oh darling, I’m not merely exhausted—I’m ‘fibro-fatigued.’ It’s fatigue with a twist, a dash of theatrics, and a sprinkle of existential dread for flavor. Just your average day in the life of a medical drama, right?”” I’ve always wanted to be on Greys. Or, honestly I’m old school and ER was my jam. STAT! lol

Oh, and communication? That’s a whole other ballgame. Because nothing says “I love you” like trying to have a serious conversation about your pain levels while your partner’s eyes glaze over like they’re watching paint dry. Ah, the sweet sound of empathy. I love watching the light in my partners eyes dim when I talk tender points. I can see exactly when he tunes out and I’m always tempted to throw in extra random shit to see if he’s paying attention lol

But hey, if your relationship can survive the endless doctor’s appointments, the mood swings from pain medication, and the occasional meltdown in the frozen foods aisle because they’re out of your favorite ice cream (or just because its Tuesday), then you know you’ve found a keeper. So here’s to love, laughter, and navigating the minefield of fibromyalgia together. Til next time gang, take care of yourself, and each other.

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Hydration and the Fibro population…

JoLeave a comment

We all learn in school about how much we need water; after all, we’re practically human-sized water balloons walking around! But while Kevin Costner might have embraced the aquatic life in WaterWorld, us fibro warriors know that our relationship with H2O is a bit more… shall we say, complex.


So, here’s the deal with staying hydrated when you’ve got fibromyalgia. It’s like, you know when you forget to water your plants for a while and they start wilting? Yeah, your body’s kind of like those neglected plants.

First off, your muscles need hydration to keep doing their thing without cramping up or feeling like they’ve been through a blender. Plus, staying hydrated helps keep your joints lubed up and less creaky. Nobody wants to feel like the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz, right?

Then there’s the whole temperature control situation. Fibro already messes with your thermostat, so why not throw dehydration into the mix? Staying hydrated helps keep your internal temperature in check, so you’re not sweating like crazy one minute and freezing the next.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the brain fog. You know when you’re parched, and suddenly you can’t remember where you put your keys? Yeah, that’s not fun. Hydration helps keep your brain sharp, or at least as sharp as it can be when fibro’s already playing tricks on it.

And hey, if you’re on meds for fibro, they might dry you out faster than a desert wind. So, drinking water is like giving your body a big ol’ thank you for putting up with all that medication nonsense.

Long story short, drink your water, folks. Honestly, nothing I can say will make it taste better but your body NEEDS it. I learned that the hard way in the hospital. Theres a reason why they bring you so much water and ice while you are in there. Your body will thank you, and hey, maybe you’ll even feel a little less like a wilted plant in need of some TLC. Take care of yourselves gang, and each other!

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Its not all sunshine and happy pills…

JoLeave a comment

I have a lot of other things I want to talk about but Fibromyalgia is so weird and varied from one person to the next and since the diagnosis tends to come after ruling out all the other causes for the symptoms being experienced and we’ve been talking about the symptoms, lets take a look at some common practices and life style changes recommended to us to help reduce the severity of the symptoms we are experiencing.

Not everyone experiences everything all at once or at all ever, fibro patients are a lot like fibro itself, all over the place. So I picked the solutions I have heard in MY past the most, but we are all different and some of this worked until it didnt, some never worked, and maybe some won’t work on ME because of my comorbidities but might make you feel tiptop. I can only write about the ones I’m familiar with and these are the holistic treatment of the symptoms, not the actual illness. You might need meds, or treatment other than what I’m going to outline. This isnt a rule book, its not a guidebook, its not even a book, I’d say at most its a ‘bo-‘ lol but if any of these are practical, talk to your doc about them, talk to family and friends, talk to other chronic pain sufferers, do your due diligence I guess I am saying.

Now, for those seeking an adventure beyond pill popping, behold the wonders of holistic treatments! Brace yourselves for a journey through the mystical realms of self-care:

Behold the ancient art of “EXERCISE“! Marvel as you engage in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or biking, all while pretending to enjoy it. Stretching and yoga are also on the menu, promising flexibility and less stiffness, if you can bend that far without groaning. This can be gentle movements on the bad days that you already feel like you’ve gone 10 rounds with the undefeated world champ, or more intense heart rate elevating exercises for the days you don’t feel sore and achey and just kind of miss it lol.


Enter the realm of “healthy diet“! Feast upon the bounty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and bid adieu to caffeine and trigger foods… or risk awakening the mighty fibromyalgia beast from its slumber. Now I know that can seem daunting, especially to those with current or former eating disorders, this is one you need to work super close with a doctor or nutritionist on. If nothing else, try to slowly ease the foods that are known triggers from the equation. Give it a month or two at least after any changes and reassess. And don’t beat yourself up over a small screw up, no reason to trash it all or start over, you stumbled, just right yourself and continue on, its not an all or its not worth it scenario, each change is helpful and will have cumulative effects.

Prepare for battle against the nefarious stress! Arm yourself with mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques, and perhaps you’ll emerge victorious against the stress monsters lurking within.

Embark on the quest for quality sleep! Equip yourself with the finest sleep hygiene practices, banish caffeine and screens from your bedside, and venture forth into the land of dreams, where fatigue dares not tread.

Pacing Activities: Learning to balance activity and rest is essential for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Pacing oneself and avoiding overexertion can help prevent flare-ups and conserve energy for activities that matter most.

Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat packs or taking warm baths can help alleviate muscle pain and stiffness, while cold packs can help reduce inflammation and numb painful areas.

Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation, which may provide relief from fibromyalgia symptoms.

Supportive Therapies: Engaging in supportive therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling can help individuals cope with the emotional challenges of living with fibromyalgia and develop effective strategies for managing symptoms.

It’s important for us to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses our specific needs and preferences. Integrating holistic approaches with conventional medical treatments can often lead to better symptom management and overall quality of life.

As you can see, even if you are resistant to taking meds, there are options available, we can’t make it go away but we can beat it into submission with a few of these tips in our arsenal. Are there any tricks you’ve found to be helpful? We love it if you’d share with the class lol
Til next time guys, take care of yourselves, and each other!

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Fibro never comes to the party alone…

JoLeave a comment

I thought it was time we talked about the elephant in the room, or more accurately the elephant on our chests. I’ve been long time friends with depression and anxiety starting way back before I knew Fibro existed. My Bipolar already had me familiar with both but it intensified in recent years as the pain from fibro and other life events try to confuse and confound me, the endless cycle with one thing triggering the other until I reach the point where I just sit paralyzed with so much to do but no idea where to get started, so I just don’t. Which of course makes it worse. *sigh*

Ah, the delightful dance of depression and anxiety with fibromyalgia symptoms, like a twisted tango of torment! Imagine this: You wake up feeling like you’ve been hit by a truck, which, by the way, you suspect would be less painful. Your body is screaming, “Hello, pain!” and your brain is like, “Ah, another fabulous day in Fibro-land.”

So, you drag yourself out of bed, shuffle to the kitchen, and attempt to make breakfast. But wait, what was I doing again? Ah, yes, eggs. Suddenly, your brain decides it’s on vacation and leaves you with a fog thicker than pea soup. You burn the eggs, set off the smoke alarm, and now you’re both in pain and feeling like a culinary failure.

Meanwhile, anxiety’s tapping its foot impatiently in the corner, like, “Come on, can we panic now?” It sees your pain and raises you a healthy dose of worry about the day ahead. “What if I can’t handle work today? What if people notice I’m not okay? What if…what if…what if?” It’s like having a hyperactive squirrel in your brain, constantly running on its little anxiety wheel.

And depression? Oh, depression’s the life of the party! It’s like that one friend who shows up uninvited, crashes on your couch, and refuses to leave. “Why bother getting out of bed? Everything sucks anyway,” it whispers in your ear, while you try to muster the energy to brush your teeth.

But here’s the kicker: depression and anxiety aren’t just content with their own shenanigans; they love to stir the pot of fibromyalgia symptoms. The more you hurt, the more anxious you get about the pain never ending. The more anxious you get, the more your muscles tense up, the more depressed you feel about never being able to escape this merry-go-round of misery.

So, there you have it, the delightful trifecta of fibromyalgia symptoms, depression, and anxiety, all wrapped up in a package of pain and panic. It’s like a rollercoaster ride through Dante’s Inferno, with extra fog and fewer laughs. Ah, the joys of chronic illness!

We will talk more in depth about what to do with these feelings, trying to stop yourself from being anxious and depressed, easier said than done yes, but its going to be the best way to cut off this cycle. I want to hear strategies people! Even little ones, what helps when your so anxious you feel like your insides are itching and clawing their way out? Share with the class if you have any tips or trick to share. Sleep is important too gang, so I’m going to crash, goodnight all, stay kind to yourselves and each other!

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Fibro because its not all about the Zzzs… except when it is…

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Fibro folk, tell me I’m not alone, you’re out, having some fun with friends, one of them out of the handful that are around, knows about your Fibro and inquires about your health. You thank them for their genuine concern, pleased to know someone is listening, when another one says ‘Oh is that the sleeping one? I got some (insert name of sleep supplement here) from facebook/tiktok/my sister’s brother in law’s father’s uncle said it works for all those and it knocks me right out’ while you are looking down so that fire doesnt shoot out of your eye holes you remember you’re too tired to argue with this person that you hardly know about what the different kinds of tireds there are. Let her be her dumb ass self and hope that she never has any type of chronic illness, because you wouldnt wish any of it on your worst enemy let alone this obnoxiously oblivious woman.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Fibromyalgia are both chronic conditions characterized by symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, but they differ in their primary symptoms and diagnostic criteria. “Just being tired,” on the other hand, typically refers to a temporary state of fatigue that can be alleviated by rest and does not meet the criteria for either CFS or Fibromyalgia.

CFS, also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is primarily characterized by profound fatigue that is not alleviated by rest and persists for at least six months. This fatigue is often accompanied by other symptoms such as cognitive difficulties (often referred to as “brain fog”), muscle and joint pain, headaches, sore throat, and tender lymph nodes. The exact cause of CFS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of factors including viral infections, immune dysfunction, and psychological stressors.

Fibromyalgia, on the other hand, is primarily characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness, often accompanied by fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. The pain associated with fibromyalgia typically affects specific tender points in the body, and the condition is thought to involve abnormalities in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals, as well as factors such as genetics, infections, and trauma.

“Just being tired,” or transient fatigue, is a common experience that everyone encounters at some point in their lives due to factors such as inadequate sleep, physical exertion, stress, or illness. Unlike CFS and Fibromyalgia, transient fatigue typically resolves with rest and does not persist for an extended period of time. While it may share some symptoms with CFS and Fibromyalgia, such as fatigue, it lacks the severity, duration, and accompanying symptoms necessary for a diagnosis of either condition.

Til tomorrow folks, be kind to yourself and one another.