Sleep and Exercise

• Sleep disorders are very common among fibromyalgia sufferers. Sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, insomnia and sleep walking rob people of important sleep. Because of the extreme fatigue many experience from lack of sleep, pain becomes worse. Take nutrients to help you sleep better. Kava kava, valerian root and melatonin have proven very successful at relaxing the body. Keep the same sleep routine every night. Do not eat, drink or take vitamins right before bed. Make sure all the lights are off. Plan a moderate exercise routine. Start by walking a block and increase the distance by a block every couple of days. Stretch or take yoga classes. Yoga is very beneficial for relieving stress and stretching muscles. If natural remedies don't work, ask your doctor for a prescription for sleep medication.
  
  

Diet

• Changing your diet can actually make a lot of difference when managing pain. Foods like eggplants, potatoes, tomatoes and green peppers contain solanine, which can interfere with enzymes found in the muscles, thus producing additional pain. All sugar should be avoided. Sugar suppresses the immune system and causes fatigue, muscle aches and anxiety. Refrain from drinking caffeine or stop drinking any caffeinated beverages after 3 p.m. To keep up your strength and to manage blood sugar levels, eat five small meals a day. Fill your meals with proteins and complex carbohydrates. Proteins are essential for muscle development and carbohydrates give you fuel. Stick with lean proteins, fiber, lots of vegetables, fresh fruits and low-fat dairy products. Remove all refined flour, sugary foods and processed foods from your diet.
  
  

Cymbalta

• Depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are some of the factors that can cause fibromyalgia. One of the latest drugs for treating fibromyalgia is Cymbalta. This antidepressant increases serotonin and norepinephrine, which helps people sleep and break free from depression. Usually, people who use it are able to sleep again and function on a normal basis. It is important to note that if you begin to have any self-harming thoughts or your depression deepens while taking Cymabalta, notify your doctor immediately. Other popular pain prescriptions include Savella, Elavil and Lyrica. If you are worried about taking conventional medications, try the natural remedies first and ask your doctor what might be the right plan for you.