Fibromyalgia is a relatively common condition in which the sufferer experiences significant and widespread pain as well as tenderness all over the body. While the condition is often considered to be closely related to arthritis – it is not a form of arthritis in the pure medical sense of the condition primarily because it does not cause an inflammation of the joints, muscles or any other tissues. Studies have shown that the condition affects almost 5 million individuals in the United States of America alone and, for some reasons yet unknown, about 80% of those diagnosed with the condition happen to be women. While the symptoms may begin to show much earlier in a persons life, the condition itself will only start to develop during phase of middle age. Some of the most common factors that cause the onset of the condition include sleep disturbances – which is also evident in the low energy levels that are shown by people with the condition; while heredity is also known to be a significantly contributing factor. Continuous sleep problems have also shown evidence of triggering muscle pain that could, together with the fatigue, lead to a considerable barrier in the amount of physical activity and endurance. Some of the most common symptoms that a sufferer will experience include memory problems, noticeable sensitivity to bright light and sharp noises, extremely painful menstrual periods, headaches and morning stiffness.
When coping with the condition a person should follow a diet that will prepare the body to fight it. A high intake of foods like carrot, cucumber and beetroot juices, soups and coconut water are known to be extremely helpful. Cooked vegetables like zucchini, pumpkin and squash are also highly suggested. A high intake of fresh vegetables will provide a healthy supply of vitamins and minerals to the body as well. A consistently performed exercise program can alleviate the condition to quite an extent but should preferably be kept to one of low impact. Some examples of the best types of physical activities include swimming and brisk-walking. One should also seriously avoid eating foods that are hot, spicy, sweet or even fried as they are likely to significantly aggravate the condition. Lifestyle habits like sleeping during the day, staying awake at night along with excessive mental worry, fear, stress and anxiety have also been known to push the condition to more severe levels. Putting two or four cups of Epsom salt to some warm bath water and allowing your body to soak in it for some time is sure to bring a significant amount of relief with it.
answered by M W