Information for Caregivers
As a caregiver of someone diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you may not know how to help your loved one or where to begin. There are, however, ways you can support your loved one.
Encourage your loved one to ask their healthcare provider about beginning an exercise program.
One study found that people with fibromyalgia who took part in a structured exercise program improved their symptoms, their self-efficacy, and aspects of their physical, emotional, and social function. The exercise program included walking and flexibility training with or without strength training.
Get educated with your loved one.
The same study found that when people with fibromyalgia combined education about self-management techniques with an exercise program, they observed enhanced effects in some outcomes.
Help your loved one prepare for doctor appointments.
Your loved one's doctor may ask questions such as:
- What kind of symptoms are you experiencing?
- How do these symptoms impact your life?
- What do you think causes these symptoms?
- Are there certain stressors in your life that you think make your symptoms worse?
Help your loved one answer these questions beforehand so he or she can get the most out of the visit.
Has your loved one already been prescribed Cymbalta for fibromyalgia?
