Fibromyalgia And Heart Disease

People suffering with fibromyalgia often have symptoms such as chest pain, heartburn, and heart palpitations. There may be a tendency to chalk it up to one of the many signs and symptoms of their condition, such as costochondritis. However, they may be ignoring what could be a serious heart problem. Researchers in Taiwan have discovered that fibromyalgia patients have a higher risk for heart disease, so symptoms of heart related issues should not be ignored.

The increased risk for heart problems can be inherited or can be caused by FMS. The answer to whether there is a definite relationship between fibromyalgia and heart disease has not yet been determined. An additional study suggests that those with fibromyalgia are also at risk for stroke
Some things to consider:

• Because of the misery caused by FMS, a lack of exercise leads to weight gain, raises blood pressure and cholesterol, and increases inflammation.

• Get a massage: Proven to slow your heart rate, massage is a great idea for heart health.

• Keep a journal of symptoms as they occur to share with medical personnel if necessary.

• Exercise as much as you can without overdoing it. Swimming, walking, or bike riding are great options.

• Discover ways to destress. Too much stress aggravates FMS and is hard on the heart.

• Depression has been shown to increase the risk of a heart attack. Find ways to get depression under control, perhaps with the aide of a physician.

• It is vital to try to get the best sleep possible. Keep the room dark, turn off all electronics, and only use your bedroom for sleeping, not for reading or watching TV.

• Fight fibromyalgia the natural way when possible. Support from groups like My Name is Fibromyalgia offer insight into how others who actually experience FMS deals with a seemingly impossible disease.