Coping With Fibromyalgia And Stress

There is a close link between fibromyalgia and stress. Fibromyalgia is a condition where the patient will experience severe pain all over the body. Stress is a body response to stimuli in the environment. It is individualistic. It is influenced by an individual perception about how he or she will be feeling in a certain situation. Although perception differs, there is a certain intrinsic relationship between fibromyalgia and stress. Every patient experiences a certain amount of stress during fibromyalgia and it will certainly exacerbate the condition significantly. Stress can have a negative impact on general well being, and fibromyalgia is definitely affected by the general health of the patient.

To shed light on the possible link between fibromyalgia and stress response, we will examine some of the stress management strategies that can be adopted specifically for fibromyalgia patients.

The Relationship between Fibromyalgia and Stress

In most cases, patients suffering from fibromyalgia are often those identified as having 'Type A' personality. This group of people is characterized as stress-prone as compared to people belonging to 'Type B' personality. Research also suggests that people suffering from fibromyalgia experience hormonal imbalance that resembles the same disturbance that occurs during stress response. So, it can be said that there is a similarity between fibromyalgia and stress response. However, more research would be needed to confirm the pattern and strength of the connection.

Warm Bath Technique for Relaxation

Since you are suffering from fibromyalgia and stress is an inevitable part of it, you need to do something relaxing and soothing to ease your mind. Try using candlelight bathing or a bubble bath to rejuvenate yourself. This is one technique for stress relief. You simply take a warm bath mixed with two to three drops of essential oils. Many aromatherapists will suggest lavender, which is one of the major fragrances that will help in relaxation. However, you should choose a fragrance of your own preference. Make your bathing environment conducive for relaxation as well. You may apply your own creative instinct in designing your bathing environment. Make full use of lighting, color and objects that will evoke nice feelings.

Deep Breathing and Guided Imagery

In guided imagery, you use visualization of beautiful scenes or events to help ease your body into relaxation. This will confer a soothing effect for your mind as well. Enhance the effect by practicing deep abdominal breathing, instead of chest breathing. For complete relaxation, deep breathing is a necessary technique. Simply lie down on a plain carpet or couch and breathe deeply. Only a few minutes practice of breathing relaxation can bring a stress-free day. When practice deep breathing, do not forget to use the guided imagery technique as well in order to enhance your experience of relaxation.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Not all health diets are suitable for patients suffering from fibromyalgia. Stress and other health complications may sometimes be directly affected by an individual's dietary preference. For example, while broccoli is touted as a wise source of carbohydrate and is recommended to many people, patients suffering from fibromyalgia must avoid broccoli in their diet. In addition, fibromyalgia patients should abstain from caffeine, aspartame and alcohol. In addition to a healthy diet, it is also recommended to walk for exercise for at least 30 minutes a few times a week.

Related articles

Alternate Fibromyalgia Treatment

Fighting Fibromyalgia

Coping with Fibromyalgia Disability

The Benefits of Fibromyalgia Support Groups

Fibromyalgia Medications to Combat the Pain

Effective Treatment of Fibromyalgia Symptoms: Delay In Treatment Can Worsen the Condition

The Fibromyalgia and Vitamin D Deficiency Connection

The Connection Between Fibromyalgia And Psoriasis

Dealing With Fibromyalgia in Children?

Can Fibromyalgia Lead to Disability?

The Benefits of Reflexology for Fibromyalgia Patients

Treatment Using Fibromyalgia Herbs

The Connection between Fibromyalgia and Weight Gain

How Painfully Is Fibromyalgia Pain?