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Clearing the Fog
Excerpted from Good Living
with Fibromyalgia Workbook.
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Many people with fibromyalgia experience unclear thinking or cognitive
dysfunction. They become forgetful, lose their train of thought, forget words
or mix them up. This is what is popularly called fibro fog. There's no known
cause for it, and the only treatment for it is following some basic memory and
communication tips.
Below are some common-sense pointers that can help you clear the fog.
- Repeat yourself. Repeat things to yourself over and over again.
Repetition will keep thoughts fresh in your mind.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Engage yourself. Reading a book, seeing a play, or working a
complex crossword or jigsaw puzzle can stimulate your brain and your
memory.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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