Fibromyalgia – My Inspired Fibro Life

Fibromyalgia: Top Tips for the Newly Diagnosed

Fibromyalgia bloggers share their top tips.

Although the condition itself was recognized as early as the 1800s, it was called fibrositis because it was believed to be caused by inflammation. Fibromyalgia wasn’t given its name until 1976, and, although often lumped with arthritis conditions, it does not cause inflammation or damage to the joints and muscles, but rather widespread pain throughout the body.

Even though it’s been around for hundreds of years, it’s only had its name for less than 50 years. A cure is non-existent as of yet, and treatments and medical opinions still widely vary.

As May comes to a close, I want to share a collection of top tips from bloggers who also chronicle their journeys with fibromyalgia. I want you to know you are not alone – there are others who have come before you and are here to help.

The Use of Turmeric for Chronic Pain

Turmeric helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Chronic pain affects over 100 million Americans; that’s more people than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined. It can lead to depression, trouble sleeping or concentrating, and is the number one reason for long-term disability care in the U.S. And while everyone reacts differently to pain and its treatments, there can be pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties found in nature and our foods.

Turmeric is a spice that is considered one of the most effective nutritional supplements there is. It’s a spice often associated with Indian foods because it gives curry that yellow color. But what does this spice have to do with Chronic Pain?

Shining a Light on Fibromyalgia

Every day is Awareness Day for those who suffer from fibromyalgia.

Every year May 12th has been designated as “Fibromyalgia Awareness Day” to shine a light on this invisible illness. Most of us who suffer from this chronic condition feel that every day is our awareness day, as we often have to explain what it is to people. Trust me when I say it is more than what you see in the pharmaceutical commercials on TV.

Melatonin, Valerian, and Fibromyalgia

Sleep is an essential function to recharge our bodies and minds.

In the early days after my fibromyalgia diagnosis (back in 2000), I remember reading somewhere that Melatonin wasn’t good for auto-immune disorders. Although FMS isn’t an auto-immune disorder, it wasn’t well understood (still isn’t) back in those days, so I never tried it. After researching natural alternatives, I settled on Valerian. It worked for me for many years, but these days it sometimes gives me a foggy feeling in the morning if I take a supplement.

Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread pain and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia often have insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or their sleep is often disrupted by pain. People with fibromyalgia may also experience an alteration in their patterns of slow wave sleep, which is the deepest stage of sleep.

Sleep is an essential function¹ that allows your body and mind to recharge, leaving you refreshed and alert when you wake up. Healthy sleep also helps the body remain healthy and stave off diseases. Without enough sleep, the brain cannot function properly.
Sleep Foundation

After yet another sleepless night recently, I decided to do look into Melatonin.

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