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Step 1
Accept that fatigue may be part of your new life. Many people will tell you to just rest. However, if you have fibromyalgia, rest may not rejuvenate your body. Take a nap in the middle of the day so you can get a little sleep. Don't wait until things get better to live your life, just find new ways of doing things.
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Step 2
Sleep with a fan on. This cuts down on noise & it can keep you from waking up so much. Also try a mattress pad, memory foam pad, or even a feather bed if you just aren't getting enough rest. It just might be that your bed isn't comfortable enough.
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Step 3
Consolidate trips. Make a list of every time you leave the house & get in the habit of recognizing if there are errands that can be done together. This saves on gas money & energy.
If you are too tired to do much, try shopping online. Some grocery stores will even deliver to your house for an added fee. -
Step 4
Most doctors recommend exercise for fibromyalgia patients. This can be the last thing that you feel like doing when you are suffering from fatigue. Try a low impact exercise like walking or yoga. If it's too painful you can always stop.
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Step 5
Keep on top of cleaning. Long cleaning sessions can be exhausting. Instead, clean for 10-15 minutes everyday so the clutter doesn't get out of control.
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Step 6
Explain the disease to your family & friends. Most people will never understand how vacuuming is exhausting. They jsut may think you are lazy when it takes ten times as much energy to accomplish a task. Explain in a calm voice how it feels & most people will more than understand. They may even brainstorm ideas on how to help you.
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Step 7
Set realistic goals. Finding a job that you can do from home can be daunting. Break up your larger goals into smaller manageable goals. Make a list of what you need to do & break it up into 15 minute increments. Spend 15 minutes a day working on your bigger goals.
Comments
histrue said
on 7/28/2009 just plain Thank you ...
FLangel said
on 3/8/2009 Good Tips. Step 6 is the hardest. I've had FMS for 7 yrs. and I still have family members that think if I look a little better then I feel better, wrong. Anyway, thanks for posting.
Crosbyjacj said
on 2/3/2009 I have a friend with this. Thanks for helping me have a little insight into her life.
Toanjalo said
on 2/1/2009 Great advice. I like tip #4. It is important to be realistic when dealing with fibromyalgia.
gormanwvzb said
on 1/27/2009 I have a family member with FM and these are great tips!