Living with fibromyalgia can feel like an uphill battle, can’t it? The constant pain, the overwhelming fatigue – it’s enough to make anyone feel defeated. But what if I told you that there is already something in your house that can make a huge difference?
The Overlooked Solution: Sleep
Here’s the thing: research shows that poor sleep quality is closely linked to increased pain and may even cause fibromyalgia symptoms. That means if you’re not getting the restorative sleep your body needs, you could be setting yourself up for even more pain and fatigue. We also know that treatments are less likely to help if you have night after night of poor sleep.
Our neurological, immune and endocrine systems play a delicate dance with each other to keep us healthy. Maintaining a regular and healthy sleep routine is vital in keeping these systems happy and regulated. What happens when they get dysregulated? Pain, fatigue, brain fog and inflammation!
Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment
So, what can you do about it? Well, it all starts with creating a sleep-friendly environment. Think blackout blinds, adjusting the thermostat to the perfect temperature (anything between 60-67 degrees is perfect!), and eliminating any noise distractions. Small changes like these can make a big difference in how well you sleep at night.
But it’s not just about the environment – establishing a consistent sleep routine is equally important. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate your body’s internal clock, leading to better symptom management.
The Power of Prioritizing Sleep for Fibromyalgia
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Ugh-I’ve tried everything to manage my fibromyalgia symptoms – medications, diets, supplements – you name it.” You aren’t alone! But if you haven’t prioritized sleep yet, you might be missing out on one of the most effective tools in your arsenal.
Ask yourself: when was the last night of good sleep you had? If the answer isn’t “last night,” it might be time to move “getting good sleep” up on your list of priorities.
Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about it. They can help decipher if you need to undergo a sleep study or see a sleep specialist and guide you in making the necessary changes to improve your sleep quality.
Leave a Reply