Coping with Heat and Humidity
By Tamara Peters
updated on 06/20/2007 at 11:06AM
Published on: July 19, 2002
article reprinted from Suite101.com
Do the lazy days of summer feel more like hazy days of fog and pain? Does your discomfort level escalate proportionately to the heat and humidity? You are definitely not alone as many Fmers say they feel much worse in either very hot, or very cold weather. Often, resulting in a flare (worsening of symptoms) as temperatures rise. This article offers coping tips for beating the heat and staying cool in the summer.
As lack of quality sleep is one of the main problems of Fibromyalgia, and heat is disruptive to sleep, it is extremely important to address this issue first. If you do not own an air conditioner, then a fan is essential. There are fans available with controls that provide a cooling feature. I purchased a fan that sits in the window, with this feature, and with the bedroom door closed it maintains a very comfortable temperature.
You might also consider a dehumidifier to eliminate some of the humidity in the air of your home. If you simply cannot sleep then at least lay down and rest as often as you can.
Drinking plenty of water (at least 8 glasses daily) is necessary to hydrate and cool your body. Fruit juices that are not too high in sugar are acceptable as well.
Wearing white, or light colors, especially natural fabrics like cotton or silk, that is loose weaved, and loose fitting, will help keep your body temperature comfortable. Try to wear as little clothing as possible, sandals if able, and keep your hair cut short, or pulled up off your neck.
Keep in mind that you need to stay within your limits, by cutting down on activities that are too strenuous, and providing plenty of time for rest and relaxation. Be sure to pace yourself during those activities that you just cannot miss.
A traditional part of summer includes summer- guests, family get-togethers, barbecues, and picnics. There is no shame in acknowledging your limitations by requesting help when necessary. If your guests do not understand, seek the support of those who do, and consider making other arrangements for your summertime visitors. This may not be possible when your company is family, but please remember to do whatever you need to take care of you.
If you exercise be sure to either do it early in the morning, or late in the day. Eat small meals often, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and high protein foods.
If you are lucky enough to own a pool, or know someone who does, then non-strenuous swimming is a great way to cool off. Be careful of very cold water (temp should be 87 degrees or higher) as this may also have a detrimental affect on your Fibro symptoms. Salt water swimming, unless it is very warm, is probably not a good idea as it may cause your muscles to cramp and and stiffen.
I have found at work that wearing a damp, cool cloth around my neck, or dabbing ice cubes on my wrists helps cool me down.
Take frequent breaks, sit in the shade, read a good book, eliminate or reduce stress, and enjoy your garden.
With a little preparation you will find yourself once more enjoying those lazy days of summer. :)
Tamara Peters works with Suite101.com in the following capacities:
Managing Editor: Medicine and Diseases
Contributing Editor: Fibromyalgia Friends
Associate Editor: Coping with Fibromyalgia-I&II CpE
Article originally printed at http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/Fibro_Friends/93639
DISCLAIMER: The statements enclosed herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information mentioned on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information and statements made are for education purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of your treating doctor. Global Healing Center does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. We design and recommend individual nutritional programs and supplements that allow the body to rebuild and heal itself naturally. The views and nutritional advice expressed by www.fibromyalgia-support.org are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition, see your physician of choice. This web site contains links to web sites operated by other parties. Such links are provided for your convenience and reference only. We are not responsible for the content or products of any linked site or any link contained in a linked site.
