Fibromyalgia: Symptoms, Lifestyle Support & Living With Chronic Pain
A great read: “All in my Mind” by Jennifer Busch
You can purchase a copy of her book by clicking on the image of the book.
I had the opportunity to speak with Jennifer Busch, the author of “All in My Mind”. She has Adrenal Fatigue, Chronic Fatigue, and Fibromyalgia. Her book is a very honest account of her recovery. She shares her good days and bad days, revealing her inner self.
This is a well-written book, expressed from the heart, which leads me to tear up a bit at the end. It is also very insightful in many different ways. I feel it is a must-read for anyone living with a chronic illness. It will give you insight into some areas we are all probably aware of yet might deliberately avoid. I know for myself I have thought about some of those things, yet I hesitate to act upon those feelings sometimes. Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing your amazing story and book with us.
Fibromyalgia
For those unfamiliar with Fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects millions of people. It has many symptoms, including widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. These symptoms can affect your mood, sleep, and cognitive ability. Medications, lifestyle changes, and complementary therapies can help manage it. Also, Fibromyalgia affects more women than men.
Common Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia involves a variety of symptoms beyond widespread pain. Below are some of the common symptoms:
- Widespread pain and aching
- Fatigue
- Poor or unrefreshing sleep
- Brain fog/difficulty concentrating
- Headaches
- Digestive problems
- Increased sensitivity
- Anxiety or mood changes
Fibromyalgia and the Nervous System
With Fibromyalgia, many researchers beleive that changes occur in how the brain and nervous system process the body’s pain signals and feel it is a disorder of the central nervous system. Central sensitization is often discussed in pain conditions. This occurs when your central nervous system overreacts to normal and mild sensations. It interprets them as painful, so it turns non-painful stimuli into painful stimuli. There is also an imbalance in neurotransmitters, showing an elevated level of chemicals that facilitate pain.
Research also suggests that the autonomic nervous system may function differently in some people with fibromyalgia. This system regulates heart rate, digestion, and the stress response. Researchers are also studying the possible roles of immune signaling and glial cells in fibromyalgia. You can learn more about chronic pain and the nervous system in our article.
Living With Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia, like many chronic pain conditions, requires a multi-dimensional approach to overall wellness. Focusing on supporting overall health. Improving your sleep, managing your stress, nourishing your body with a healthy diet, and focusing on gentle movement are great ways to support your overall health.
Nutrition and Gut Health
There is not one specific diet that works for Fibromyalgia or chronic pain. It is, however, important to focus on nutrient-dense foods and a gut-healthy diet. Both of these are very helpful when living with a chronic condition. Gut health and pain share a connection.
Supplements and Complementary Support
Supplements don’t cure Fibromyalgia, but supplements may support your overall health, especially when deficiencies are present. Below is a list of supplements many have found beneficial when dealing with Fibromyalgia. Some have been studied for their benefits for fibromyalgia; however, results are mixed. For more information, view our article on Supplements for Chronic Pain.
Magnesium is involved in over 300 chemical processes in the body, including muscle and nerve function, and has been found helpful for muscle stiffness, some pain, and sleep issues.
Vitamin D supports muscle strength and pain sensitivity, especially when deficient.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) helps support energy and helps with fatigue.
Omega-3 fatty acids offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Vitamin B12 may help lower homocysteine levels, which is often linked to chronic pain and nerve health.
Many also use D-Ribose for energy support, probiotics to support gut health, and Turmeric/Curcumin for inflammation.
Finding What Helps You
Jennifer shares what helped her during her recovery in her book “All in my Mind,” and I have shared several things I have done during my recovery from CRPS. Part of living with chronic pain is discovering what helps you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I have dedicated years helping people living with chronic pain learn more about treatment options, natural resources, and how the nervous system works. Visit our Living With Chronic Pain Learning Center for more information.