Fatigue from fibromyalgia feels like a constant state of fatigue that diminishes your energy and mental capacity. Fatigue can be even more debilitating than pain. The overwhelming fatigue makes our body feel heavy and weak. Contributes to brain fog increasing memory loss and forgetfulness. Fatigue can be all the time or last for months and months.
Fatigue is the second most prominent symptom of fibromyalgia, pain being the first. When combined with severe fatigue, the pain is even more difficult to bear. Studies have shown that the amount of fatigue a person with fibromyalgia experiences directly affects the amount of pain they have. Fatigue also has an impact on your emotions and is related to depression.
The fatigue associated with fibromyalgia is similar to that of chronic fatigue syndrome (renamed “systemic stress intolerance disease”). In fact, many people who have fibromyalgia may also have CFS / SEID. The Arthritis Foundation estimates that 50 to 70 percent of people with fibromyalgia also meet the criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Why are we so exhausted?
For people with fibromyalgia and / or CFS, the conditions themselves cause fatigue. Other factors such as stress, anxiety, depression, lifestyle and medications can make fatigue worse.
Here are some reasons why you may feel exhausted:
Sleep disorders: lack of good quality sleep is a big part of the problem. Sleep problems are so common in fibromyalgia that symptoms such as awakening without renewal, fatigue, fatigue and insomnia are included in the diagnostic criteria for FMS.
Mitochondrial dysfunction: fatigue is a characteristic symptom of mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondrial within our cells converts nutrients and oxygen into energy. With fibromyalgia, it has been shown that the mitochondria of many body cells are impaired. This means that we do not have enough energy to nourish our body.
Stress: One of the symptoms of long-term stress is fatigue. Some experts believe that chronic stress is a strong factor that contributes to the development of fibromyalgia. Many of us with fibro know that stress will trigger an outbreak of symptoms very quickly. Chronic stress is also a precursor to anxiety and depression.
Anxiety or depression: anxiety and depression can cause fatigue and leave you feeling exhausted. People suffering from depression are 4 times more likely to suffer from fatigue. People who suffer from fatigue are 3 times more likely to become depressed. People with fibromyalgia are prone to suffer anxiety and / or depression. Everything becomes a vicious circle that can be difficult to break ..
Poor nutrition: experts say that poor nutrition is a big culprit when it comes to fatigue in general. We know that there are several nutritional deficiencies involved with fibromyalgia, so eating healthy and getting the right nutrients is extremely important.
Medications: Many prescription and non-prescription medications can cause fatigue and fatigue. Some examples are anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants, medications for high blood pressure and statins for high cholesterol. The more medications you take, the more likely you are to feel fatigued.
Studies published earlier this year help explain why people who deal with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS / MS) and Fibromyalgia have little response to physical activity and poor energy production.
Ways to combat fatigue from fibromyalgia
Fatigue from fibromyalgia is not so easy to treat. On good days, fatigue can be tolerable. However, on bad days ordinary activities seem virtually impossible.
Here are some tips that can help you cope with fatigue:
Use your energy wisely: take breaks and watch your rhythm. Even if you are having a good day, do not try to do too much, it will only cause a setback. So keep your schedule simple, know your limitations and rest when you need it.
Exercise: I know that the idea of exercising can be overwhelming, but lack of exercise can make your muscles become stiff and more painful, which also contributes to your feeling fatigued. Start slowly and choose a time of day that works best for you.
Eat well: eating a nutritious diet is good for your general well-being. Avoid sugary, fried and processed foods that can leave you bogged down. Cooking can make me feel exhausted. On the days when I have more energy, I prepare meals or at least I of the preparation work to make it easier.
Reduce stress: Fibromyalgia can be stressful and stress can leave you more fatigued. If you can learn to control your stress, you will have more energy. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga and listening to music are some stress management techniques that help me.
Prioritize sleep: sleep disturbances are common with fibromyalgia. Lack of quality sleep can cause fatigue and worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Some experts believe that disordered sleep is the most important symptom to treat when you have fibromyalgia. I know that when I sleep well, I feel better. When I can not sleep, I feel worse in every way.
Talk to your doctor: if your medications are making you feel even more tired, talk with your doctor. He or she may prescribe an alternative, reduce your dose or try to take your medication at a different time of the day.
Energy supplements: four supplements that help your body produce more energy are coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), D-ribose, magnesium and vitamin B. It is important to keep in mind that supplements can adversely affect certain health conditions. interact with certain medications. Research and check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure they are safe for you.
Fatigue from fibromyalgia can be paralyzing. It is physically and emotionally exhausting. On bad days, you can barely crawl out of bed. You feel exhausted The overwhelming fatigue will not disappear. You can not concentrate, remember things or stay focused. Believe me, I know how you feel. I can not remember the last time I felt full of energy or did not feel exhausted at some time of the day …