TIPS & HINTS part1  (please CLICK HERE for pt2)

The object of this page is to share different tips and hints that have been contributed by members, over a period of time, to help other members to cope better with the condition.  So please send in your tips and hints to the Co-ordinator at 16 Barberry Avenue, Chatham, Kent  ME5 9TE, or email: margaret@robson78.fsnet.co.uk

Any material placed on this page must first be approved by the Fibromyalgia Support Group (Medway)'s Management Committee.

ITCHY SKIN

A few people have asked me if others with FMS get itchy skin.  The answer is, yes.  Although not common, it is known that a number of  people do suffer with itchy skin.  Dr Devin Starlanyl, in her book 'Fibromyalgia & Chronic Myofascial Pain', gives a good explanation of this and why it happens.  She says that ? Fibromyalgia skin biopsies reveal significantly higher values of Immunoglobin G (IgG) deposits in the skin and vessel walls and a higher reactivity for one type of collagen. She suggests that ice may help temporarily, and to keep the skin moist.  Also speak to a Pharmacist who may be able to recommend a good cream.  However, as with anything else that is a new symptom, speak to your Doctor first.

MAGNESIUM MALATE

Magnesium Malate has been reported as being beneficial to some Fibromyalgia sufferers.  It is important for energy production in the body and seems to have a particular role in muscle health.

CHARCOAL CAPSULES

Activated Charcoal Capsules assist with gastrointestinal discomfort. Holland & Barrett sell them for £3.99 for 100 capsules.  They are a natural remedy, but it is a good idea to mention it to your Dr if you decide to take them

LINSEEDS

Linseeds are a very good solution to the problems of constipation.  It can be used with yoghurt, cereals, fruit juice, soup, etc.  It is important that you take it with at least ¼ pint liquid to each tablespoon of seed.  You should try less than the recommended amount then increase as required.

DID YOU KNOW THAT:

• Many types of laxative can produce a lazy bowel
• Fibre requires liquid to work
• Cooked vegetables give just as much fibre as raw vegetables
• Dark rye bread gives just as much fibre as wholemeal bread
• Milk, meat, fish, and poultry do not contain fibre
• Rough plain bread gives less fibre than rye bread
• You should eat 600g fruit and vegetables every day
• If you would cover your daily fibre requirements exclusively with soft rolls, it would be necessary to eat 22.

RUSSIAN REMEDY

Sent in by a member, this is a 'very gentle but effective Russian remedy' for constipation.  Make a small salad of cooked beetroot with one or two shredded carrots.  If you do try it with good results please let me know.

BARLEY

Add barley to your soups and casseroles.  It is a highly nutritious grain that is reputed to help fight stress and fatigue and improve brain function and mental alertness.

SMOOTH OPERATOR

A juice containing bananas and figs, both rich in tryptophan which is necessary for production of serotonin, which can induce a feeling of well-being.

Ingredients: 250g (8oz) carrot

                    100g (3½oz) figs

                     1 orange

                     2.5cm (1 inch) cube fresh root

                     ginger, roughly chopped

                     100g (3½oz) banana

Juice the carrot, figs, orange and ginger.  Put the juice into a blender with the banana and 2 ice cubes and whiz for 20 seconds for a delicious smoothie.  Add more ice cubes and decorate with sliced figs if liked.

ITCHY SKIN RELIEF

1. Apply camomile or calendula ointment

2. Add two tablespoons of cider vinegar to warm bathwater

3. Use a mild non-soap cleanser or wash with water only

4. Make a cold compress with marigold or tea and apply to the skin

BANANAS & SLEEP

Bananas encourage the production of the sleep hormone. 

MILK & SLEEP

Milk contains Tryptophan, which is converted into a substance that causes the brain to release sleep hormones.

So it's bananas and milk at bedtime for us all!!

LEMON BALM & PAIN

Lemon Balm added to a bath is said to reduce pain.  No, don't all rush out to buy some, I'll have bought it all up by now!!  Seriously, though, if anyone does give it a try, please let us all know the result. 

By the way, Lemon Balm also soothes coughs and sore throats and helps digestion when made into a tea.   

ALOE VERA & IBS

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a major cause of bloating.  It affects people in different ways, but the condition is often triggered by stress.  Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.  Aloe Vera juice is said to help heal the digestive system and cleanse the bowel, easing the problems.

EPSOM SALTS AND MUSCLES

Epsom Salts, available from chemists, are rich in Magnesium and help muscles to relax.  Add 250g of Epsom Salts to a hot bath and 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil.  This is relaxing and, as a bonus, will also ease a blocked nose!

CONSTIPATION & PEARS

Pears are one of the most high fibre foods available - far higher than many so-called high fibre cereals, according to the Digestive Fitness Information Bureau (fact sheets available from 020 7761 1796 or www.constipationadvice.co.uk).

EMU OIL

Emu Oil has pain relieving properties and anti-inflammatory properties that make this ideal for cuts, bruises, sprains, and muscle aches etc.  It eases complaints of tender joints, and is excellent for open cuts or itchy rashes.

Distributor: Australian Emu Oil Direct, 49 Portland Road, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 3BU.  Telephone: 01784 255400.

Price: £6.50 for 60ml; £12 for 120ml, + 50p p&p.  Guaranteed.  Refund if not delighted.  Unique roll-on action.

Avoca Bodycare.  Telephone: 01323 646777.

Top Grade, Gold Standard: £7.95 for 50ml; £11.95 for 100ml.