Awake Again? Chronic Fatigue or Fibromyalgia

You roll over again, hoping against reason a new position will make the bed more comfortable, and somehow lull to you to sleep. From your nightstand, red LED light glare the time: 2:27 AM. Read on as we discuss Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue symptoms like this. Sadly, this isn’t anything new. By night, you toss and turn. By day, you’re drowsy, can’t focus, and your muscles cry out in pain. You fight through another restless night and painful day; in the hope this will pass with time. If any of this sounds familiar, you might suffer from fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome. 

Though these conditions aren't identical, they both involve ongoing fatigue and consistent, widespread muscle pain. The main distinction is fibromyalgia results in more muscle pain than fatigue, while chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) leans more towards fatigue. In both cases, patients report a state of unfocused drowsiness often called “fibro fog.” This brain fog impairs coordination, causes anxiety, and generally interrupts regular life. The pain, caused by muscles tightening, is widespread across the body and may include stiffness, bowel issues, and headaches.

Unfortunately, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome aren’t passing sicknesses, but long-term conditions. You won’t "sleep it off” (and not just because they keep you from sleeping), and no shot will cure you — fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome aren’t that simple.

Many doctors connect chronic fatigue syndrome to agents like viruses (chronic fatigue syndrome often goes along with a low fever and/or mild sore throat), and fibromyalgia to physical or emotional trauma. But the reality is these conditions aren’t fully understood yet.  Fibromyalgia and CFS symptoms could result from a variety of potential root causes. A holistic approach to recovery is the best way to tackle such a complex problem. It isn’t easy and may require lifestyle shift — but if you’re willing try a holistic approach, you may just find rest.  

The first response is to manage the symptoms. A power nap during the day may give a jolt of energy, temporarily counteracting brain fog. Fibromyalgia-related muscle pain has been known to alleviate somewhat by applying heat and a gentle massage.  Acupuncture treatments can alleviate some pain as well. But managing symptoms won't cure them. Going beyond immediate alleviation requires real work and experimentation, to identify the underlying issues and counteract them. 

Some patients must alter their diet and exercise or try detoxifying or mind-body work. Before you embark on this experimentation, seek a professional’s help — they know what to do, and will make your job easier. First, schedule an appointment to find out for sure if you suffer from fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome. Then, let your holistic doctor guide you through the management recovery process.

These symptoms won’t go away on their own, but a personalized holistic treatment can get you on your way to recovery. At Infinity Wellness Center, we specialize in holistic approaches to treating fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Call us today to make an appointment - (512)-328-0505 Start your healing journey with Infinity Wellness Center today in Waxahachie, Texas.