What are the Effects on Sleep From Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that is often accompanied by other symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. These symptoms can have a major impact on a person’s ability to get restful, restorative sleep, which can in turn worsen the pain and other symptoms of Fibromyalgia.
One of the most common sleep disturbances associated with Fibromyalgia is difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including pain, anxiety, and other symptoms of Fibromyalgia. For example, people with Fibromyalgia may have difficulty getting comfortable in bed due to pain, or they may be unable to relax and fall asleep due to racing thoughts or anxiety.
Another common issue is a lack of deep, restorative sleep. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including pain, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnoea. People with Fibromyalgia may also experience frequent awakenings throughout the night, which can prevent them from reaching the deeper stages of sleep where the body and mind are able to rest and repair themselves.
The effects of these sleep disturbances can be significant. Lack of sleep can worsen pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties, making it even harder for people with Fibromyalgia to function during the day. It can also lead to other health problems, such as a weakened immune system and an increased risk of chronic diseases.
To help improve sleep, it is important for people with Fibromyalgia to establish a regular sleep routine and create a sleep-friendly environment. This may include setting a regular bedtime and wake time, avoiding caffeine and alcohol in the evenings, and creating a dark, quiet, and cool sleep environment.
It may also be helpful to engage in relaxation techniques before bed, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help calm the mind and body. Some people may find it helpful to use a white noise machine or earplugs to block out disruptive noises.
In some cases, medication may be necessary to help improve sleep. This could include over-the-counter sleep aids, such as melatonin, or prescription sleep medications. However, it is important to discuss the use of any sleep medications with a doctor, as they can have potential side effects and may not be safe for everyone.
In summary, Fibromyalgia can cause sleep disturbances that can have a major impact on a person’s ability to get restful, restorative sleep. To help improve sleep, it is important for people with Fibromyalgia to establish a regular sleep routine and create a sleep-friendly environment, and to discuss the use of sleep medications with a doctor if necessary.