Fibromyalgia Coping Tips: How To Beat Fibrofog
One of the most frustrating fibromyalgia symptoms is fibrofog. Also one of the most common symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome, fibro fog encompasses memory loss, cognitive impairment, and difficulties with language and learning, meaning that it affects an individual with fibromyalgia in every aspect of her life. But it is important to remember that taking small, daily steps can help combat fibrofog and help you on the road to fibromyalgia relief.
Tips on Fighting Fibrofog
Here are some simple steps you can take in order to help alleviate your fibro fog symptoms:
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- Use your computer. Your computer can be an important tool in helping you keep track of appointments, birthdays and other special events. Most computers have reminder services that can help you record these dates. Some systems even allow you to set an alarm that can remind you of the day and even help you keep track of the hour. You can even set your computer to help you keep track of tasks that need completion or tending to, such as the casserole you put in the oven for dinner.
- Use humor to help you see the bright side of things. While fibromyalgia symptoms like fibromyalgia pain and anxiety can be difficult to cope with, seeing the humor in fibro fog is a great way to alleviate stress and help to prevent depression. For example, if fibro fog is clouding your memory, joke to yourself by saying that at least you can watch the same movie twice and have the ending still be a surprise. While it may take a little time to see the humor in the situation, laughing at yourself is a great skill that builds character and overall strength.
- De-clutter your home. Reducing clutter is an excellent way in which to remember where things are. If you don’t need something, give it away to charity or throw it out. Create a place for everything and make sure that things are stored where they belong. Also, be sure to put things back where they belong in order to alleviate your fibro fog. De-cluttering will also help reduce mess, which will alleviate fibromyalgia-related fatigue.
- Establish a routine. Creating routines for everyday tasks can also help you with your fibro fog. For instance, put away your groceries first and then take out the garbage. By creating daily regimens for yourself, you will help to create a pattern of activities that will help boost your memory and reduce the frustration and inconvenience of fibro fog.
- Write things down. Making a to-do list is another excellent way in which to bring relief for your fibrofog. Jot down grocery lists and errands to do around the house. Post-it notes can also help when tacked in a visible spot, such as the refrigerator, as they are a great visual reminder of daily tasks that can sometimes be forgotten due to fibromyalgia-related memory loss.
- Keep track of your medications. Using a small plastic pill keeper with individual compartments for every day of the week is an ideal way to keep track of your medication. Plus, using this system also reduces the chance of doubling up on doses of your fibromyalgia medication.
- Increase your intake of Omega-3. An essential component of any fibromyalgia diet, Omega-3 can help to combat fibrofog, and specifically fibromyalgia memory loss, as well as other common symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as joint problems. It can also help to improve overall mental health. In fact, having at least two fish-based meals per week can help alleviate a host of fibromyalgia symptoms. Fish that are especially rich in Omega-3 are salmon, tuna (not canned) and mackerel.