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Find out how flexible you areAnxiety can be associated with fibromyalgia, although the underlying cause can be difficult to determine. The symptom could arise as a result of apprehension about chronic pain or be triggered by prolonged fatigue. In this page, our muscle and joint expert Earle Logan discusses the possible causes of anxiety in fibromyalgia and suggests a range of herbal and self-help solutions to soothe any lingering feelings of worry and dread.
Fibromyalgia is a complex condition resulting in both physical and emotional symptoms. Anxiety has been documented as one of the emotional symptoms of fibromyalgia. However, it is also thought that anxiety may arise because of worrying or growing concern over other symptoms of fibromyalgia, such as pain and fatigue.
Anxiety may be described as a strong feeling of worry or unease. It is often worsened by stressful activities and can lead to periods of mood swings. Often anxiety sufferers feel that something bad is going to happen, and worrying about what this may be can worsen symptoms.
The question sometimes asked is ‘Why does anxiety cause fibromyalgia?’ So far, research clearly shows a link between fibromyalgia and anxiety, but this link is not fully understood. While many assume anxiety is a symptom of fibromyalgia, others suggest it is the other way round. Theories and speculations about these two conditions abound, some of which may explain the connections.
As fibromyalgia is a largely unexplained condition, doctors struggle to give patients a clear understanding about their conditions or definite answers to the questions. It is for this reason that many fibromyalgia patients begin to worry about their symptoms as they begin to believe that there may be an underlying health concern.
However, it may also be that people who suffer from anxiety tend to have increased nerve responses to stimuli such as touch. This makes them hypersensitive to physical sensations such as pain. Additionally anxiety can cause muscle tension, resulting in tenderness and achiness.
Home remedies for anxiety are often quite personal and what works for one person may not necessarily help the next. Finding your own techniques for keeping relaxed is important. Some of the most common include:
There are several calming herbs, many of which can be taken as a short-term boost to help you through an anxious time, but also in the long-term to help you adopt a more relaxed approach to life.
If your symptoms of anxiety do not improve with home or herbal remedies or at any stage you notice a worsening of fibromyalgia or anxiety symptoms, it is important to speak to your doctor.
A doctor may prescribe sedatives or anti-depressants, to calm your anxious feelings. However, you should discuss the possible side-effects with him first, particularly if you are already taking other types of medication.
Alternatively, finding a means of managing the pain associated with fibromyalgia may help to reduce symptoms of anxiety. There are several types of painkillers available on prescription, and your doctor will discuss with you which treatment option will suit you best.
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Find out how flexible you areAs the A. Vogel Muscles and Joints advisor, I recommend Atrogel® for the effective relief from aches and pains.
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