Got Fibromyalgia? Avoid These Bad Habits That Make Your Symptoms Worse

Living with fibromyalgia is a daily balancing act. This condition, characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties, often requires not just medication but also significant lifestyle adjustments.

A lifestyle shift comprises a series of conscious choices that can help manage your symptoms and enhance your quality of life.

At Monarch Health Services, Inc., in West Palm Beach, Florida, Tiffany Jarrett, MD, and her team champion a personalized, holistic approach to managing fibromyalgia. 

In this article, she sheds light on some everyday habits that could be exacerbating your symptoms. By understanding these habits and learning how to navigate around them, you'll be better equipped to handle your condition and improve your well-being. 

Avoiding exercise

When grappling with chronic pain and fatigue, hitting the gym can feel challenging. But the reality is, avoiding exercise could make your fibromyalgia symptoms worse. 

Studies have shown that regular, gentle exercise can help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms. Exercise can increase your endurance, strengthen your muscles, and improve your overall mood. 

Avoiding physical activity entirely can lead to muscle stiffness and more pain in the long run. The trick is to start small. Try low-impact exercises, such as swimming, walking, or yoga, and gradually increase your activity level.

Skimping on sleep

Sleep and fibromyalgia have a complicated relationship. If you're living with this condition, you're probably no stranger to tossing and turning at night. But, irregular sleep patterns, late-night screen time, and caffeine can disturb your sleep even more.

Prioritize good sleep hygiene by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a peaceful sleep environment, and steering clear of caffeine and large meals close to bedtime. These steps can go a long way in enhancing your overall well-being.

Overlooking your mental health

Stress and anxiety can crank up fibromyalgia pain and fatigue. Therefore, taking care of your mental health is a must. Regular meditation, mindfulness exercises, and cognitive-behavioral therapy may help control your stress levels. If you're feeling overwhelmed, remember it's OK to seek help from a mental health professional.

Poor nutrition

While no one-size-fits-all diet for fibromyalgia exists, certain foods may flare up your symptoms. Processed foods, high-sugar items, and caffeine are often culprits. On the flip side, a balanced diet brimming with nutrients may help keep your energy levels steady and help you manage your pain. 

Pushing your limits

It's essential to tune into your body and respect its limits. Overdoing things can lead to a flare-up of fibromyalgia symptoms. Know when to push and when to pause. This careful balance can help you maintain functionality without worsening your symptoms.

Skipping medical appointments

Regular medical checkups are crucial in managing fibromyalgia effectively. Missing appointments could lead to gaps in your care, which can, in turn, aggravate symptoms. Consistent, personalized care is vital to keeping your fibromyalgia in check.

Living with fibromyalgia involves more than just taking prescribed medications; it also involves taking a good look at your lifestyle and making necessary adjustments. Every small change, from the way you manage stress to the foods you eat, can significantly influence your symptoms and overall well-being.

Managing fibromyalgia might seem daunting, but remember, you're not alone. At Monarch Health Services, Inc., we're committed to walking this journey with you. Together, we can navigate the path to better health and a more comfortable life. To learn more, call 561-510-7859 or book an appointment online today.