One Longfellow Place # 3807 Boston, Ma 02114
HOME-SITE  

 1-800-286-8686     TEL: 1-617-371-4242     FAX 1-617-742-0051

FAQ's  

Coping with Fibromyalgia
FIBROMYALGIA  
     Coping   Many people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and fibromyalgia experience episodes of unclear
     Treating   thinking or cognitive dysfunction. They become forgetful, lose their train of thought, forget words
     Tender points   or mix them up. This is what is popularly called “brain fog” or “fibro fog.”
     
Useful Links   Following are some basic memory and communication tips that can help you deal with episodes of
Forms   minor cognitive dysfunction.
Main Page    
  Here are some common-sense pointers that can help you clear the fog:
     
    1. Repeat yourself. Repeat things to yourself over and over again. Repetition will keep thoughts
        fresh in your mind.
    2. Write it down. Whether you write in a calendar, in a notebook or on sticky notes, if you're
        afraid you won't remember something, putting pen to paper can help.
    3. Pick your best time. If there is something you need to do that requires concentration and memory,
        such as balancing your checkbook or following a recipe, pick your best time to do it. Many people
        with fibromyalgia say they perform best early in the day.
    4. Get treated. Depression, pain and sleep deprivation can influence your ability to concentrate
        and remember. Getting your medical problems treated may indirectly help your memory.
    5. Engage yourself. Reading a book, seeing a play, or working a complex crossword or jigsaw puzzle
        can stimulate your brain and your memory.
    6. Stay active. Physical activity, in moderation, can increase your energy and help lift your fibro
        fog. Speak to your doctor or physical therapist about an exercise program that is right for you.
    7. Explain yourself. Explain your memory difficulties to family members and close friends. Memory
        problems often result from stress. Getting a little understanding from the ones you love may help.
    8. Keep it quiet. A radio blasting from the next room, a TV competing for your attention, or
        background conversation can distract your attention from the task at hand. If possible, move to a
        quiet place and minimize distractions when you are trying to remember.
    9. Go slowly. Sometimes memory problems can result from trying to do too much in too short a period
        of time. Break up tasks, and don't take on more than you can handle at once. Stress and fatigue will
        only make the situation worse.
     
    Source: © 2003 The Arthritis Foundation ( www.arthritis.org )