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Fibromyalgia and the Weather
http://www.webcontent.com/Fibromyalgia-and-the-Weather/a2815_1
Angel
 
By Angel
Published on 09/2/2008
 
Changes in the weather affect many fibromyalgia patients. Learning to deal with changing weather conditions is imperative to a fibromyalgia patients well being.

Fibromyalgia and the Weather

Fibromyalgia sufferers often experience a worsening of their symptoms on rainy, cloudy, or stormy days. Many have headaches along with their pain level rising throughout the body. Fatigue and sleep problems can also get worse. In a study done in 1981, 90% of those studied reported a worsening of symptoms during bad weather.

The Barometric pressure and precipitation have a marked effect of fibromyalgia sufferers. Many fibromyalgia sufferers feel better during warm months, and get worse when the temperature and barometric pressure falls.  Wind and humidity are also factors that affect the pain level for people with fibromyalgia.

Learning to deal with weather changes is imperative. Make sure you have medication on hand to relieve head and muscle aches, take frequent breaks during the day, and try relaxation techniques to help with sleep.

Some people may find that they have to change their whole lives to get relief. If your symptoms persist, or get worse, moving to a different climate may be called for. A place with less storms and dreary days might be just the ticket.

Unfortunately, most can’t afford to uproot their whole family. It is important that you talk over your symptoms with your doctor to figure out if there is anything else you can do. You also need to make sure the symptoms are related to your fibromyalgia and not another condition.

Sometimes fibromyalgia patients just have to do the best they can in a given situation. Rest, relax, and take care of yourself to the best of your ability. Having supportive family members and friends, and a good, caring doctor will go a long way towards helping a fibromyalgia patient’s life.

Learning to cope with new things, deal with pain, and still live a productive life is something all fibromyalgia sufferers face. Take one day at a time. Listen to your body and don’t overdo it, and pamper yourself on bad days. The weather will get you down, but you can counteract the effects by staying positive and doing everything you can to help yourself.