If you’re living with fibromyalgia, you know that a flare-up can turn even the simplest tasks into something much more daunting. The pain can be relentless, fatigue overwhelming, and the frustration all too real. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or just in the midst of a nasty flare, you might find yourself wondering: what helps a fibromyalgia flare-up?
Over the years, I’ve definitely had my fair share of flares and learnt a thing or two about what helps me along the way. To get through the rough patches, I’ve curated a fibro survival kit of sorts, filled with items and strategies that offer comfort and relief when I need it most.
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Embracing Heat Therapy
When a flare-up hits, heat is my first line of defense. A heated blanket is like a warm, comforting hug that definitely helps a fibromyaglia flare On particularly rough days, I’ll wrap myself up in a blanket burrito and let the heat seep into the roving pains.
For more targeted relief, I rely on heating pads. These can be electric, microwaveable heat packs (such as Warmies plush or Releaf packs, which are on my chronic illness product wish list!), or classic hot water bottles. Like a larger blanket, these fibro must-haves penetrate deep, improving circulation and helping to ease pain and tension.
Weighted Plush or Blanket
My weighted blanket is another essential in my fibro survival kit. It’s like having a gentle, reassuring presence that helps a fibromyalgia flare by calming my mind and body alike. The weight provides what’s known as a deep pressure therapy (DPT—also a common service dog task!), which can reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
I currently have a classic weighted blanket and a weighted plush Pooh bear, with Hugimals at the top of my chronic illness wish list! I can’t wait to bring home my own Frankie the Cat, and their Heart to Hug collab with the Joyful Heart Foundation (one of my favorite organizations) is too good to miss.
Topical Relief
There’s something so immediate and satisfying about applying some sort of muscle rub when pain strikes. I use a variety of topical solutions, including:
Primarily, these products help a fibromyalgia flare by creating a cooling or warming sensation that distracts your brain from the pain signals. It’s sort of like tricking your body into focusing on this alternate feeling, rather than your pain!
Magnesium spray is another of my topical go-tos, ever since seeing it in Jennifer Brea’s film Unrest. Magnesium is an essential mineral that can benefit many of us—it plays a crucial role in muscle and nerve function. During a flare-up, I’ll spray it directly onto my skin. The relief is usually quick! Just be sure to try a test patch, as this is known to cause reactions for some.
OTC and Prescription Medications
Medication is a crucial part of managing a chronic illness, including fibro, and haing the right options available can make a significant difference. For me, over-the-counter Advil Dual Action helps a fibromyalgia flare by taking some of the edge off the pain. It combines ibuprofen and acetaminophen (paracetamol) to offer both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits.
In addition to OTC meds, I do rely on prescription medications for more comprehensive management. Celebrex is my go-to for lowering my baseline, while amitriptyline works to reduce pain and fatigue while improving sleep. While not specifically prescribed for fibromyalgia, I’ve also had a bit of relief from muscle relaxers as a last resort!
CBD
CBD has found its way into my fibromyalgia survival kit for its potential reduce feelings of pain and inflammation. I use it in a few forms, but I think my favorite is my Wink CBD pen and its flavored cartridges. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the calming effects of CBD help not only with pain but also with anxiety and sleep issues. And unlike THC, CBD doesn’t have psychoactive effects, which means I can use it during the day without impairment. It’s a natural option that provides a sense of calm and helps manage the constant pain.
TENS Unit
A TENS unit might seem a bit intimidating at first, but it’s truly a simple and effective tool for pain relief. This device sends small electrical impulses through the skin to the nerves, helping to block pain signals and reduce muscle spasms. I use my TENS unit on areas where I feel the most pain—usually my arms or legs. It’s a non-invasive, drug-free method that I can use in the comfort of my home.
Medical Devices and Mobility Aids
A mobility aid helps a fibromyalgia flare-up especially when a flare-up leaves me feeling weak or unsteady. Using a cane helps me move around more safely, reducing the risk of falls and taking some pressure off. Compression gloves are another staple—my go-to are from Grace & Able! When my hands swell and ache, these gloves provide gentle compression that helps reduce pain and improve circulation. They’re especially helpful during cooler weather or after a long day of using my hands (typing hurts!).
Building Your Fibro Survival Kit
Navigating life with fibromyalgia isn’t easy, but having a survival kit that helps a fibromyalgia flare-up can make a world of difference. The items above are some of my personal go-tos but, of course, everyone’s experience with fibromyalgia is unique.
Take the time to experiment and listen to your body. What brings you comfort? What helps ease the pain? Building your survival kit is an ongoing process, and it’s okay to try new things and adapt as your needs change.
Share what helps a fibromyalgia flare-up for you below! I’d love to hear what survival kit essentials come to your aid on tough days.
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