Spring Fibro Update

I just left my doctor’s office for my annual physical and was given a clean bill of health. Well except for my fibromyalgia, that is. That ugly beast is still with me. My doctor rewarded me with not having to do blood work this time. No needless poking! I also received my last Prolia injection! In six months I will switch to a different medication for two years, and then should be done with medication for osteoporosis.

It’s a nice feeling to think you are doing something right with your health.

Yes, I still get flare ups.

I had a wicked two week flare of complete and utter exhaustion starting the day after I received my second COVID vaccine (Moderna). And this came after I had barely recovered from the flare up I had during our week-long winter storm here in Texas. But I will take these side effects to the potentially serious effects of COVID-19. I am just so thankful for Spring and warmer weather and my ability to cope with such flares.

Coping

I have learned to handle the exhaustion and pain – extra rest, Alleve, epsom salt baths, clean diet, and switching to a more restorative exercise routine like yoga are my preferred treatments over medication. I also try to minimize my stress when I am in flare mode, so as not to prolong it.

• Fibro Fatigue: 5 Coping Tips
• 6 Ways to Cope with Stress when you Have a Chronic Illness
• What Chronic Illness Has Taught Me by Counting My Spoons
• 6 Fibromyalgia Triggers and How to Avoid Them by The Disable Diva
• A Holistic Approach to Fibromyalgia
• 18 Survival Tips for Managing Fibromyalgia from CreakyJoints.org
• Best Blogger Tips for Reducing Fibromyalgia Symptoms from Fed Up with Fatigue

While I do still have some level of pain most days, I considerable myself a “highly functioning” fibro-mate, as I rarely have to spend a day in bed from my flares. It’s very mysterious how this condition effects some so much worse than others.

I have even been able to work at several of our mass vaccination events (I work in municipal) government – standing for hours at a time. It’s a great feeling knowing your are helping to protect the community and potentially save lives. Everyone is so thankful for our efforts, and there’s great hope that we can end this worldwide pandemic with events such as these.

Resources

Here are some other great bloggers and resources for learning more about Fibromyaliga and others’ coping mechanisms:

• Chris Hamilton’s Stuff – Read about fibromyalgia from a man’s perspective. Chris, like myself, prioritizes healthy habits.
• FibroBlogger Directory – This is a great collection of links to other blogs on fibromyalgia and chronic pain. Lee continues to promote awareness of fibromyalgia, as well as other bloggers who write about it.
• Reclaiming Hope – Terri writes about wellness for every body, sharing positivity and her great attitude.

Weekend Plans

I have already made some great homemade granola this morning. We are heading back to the office full time next week (second attempt!) so I have to do some other serious meal prep and get organized to make it through the week. I also plan on visiting my mom and getting out to walk the dog to enjoy the sunshine.

What’s your favorite coping mechanism for fibro pain/exhaustion? Any other great bloggers I should check out and feature?

I hope you have some great weekend plans as well!