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need info on your opinions about OTC calmatives

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Fibromyalgia
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Posted 8/24/2008 7:36 PM (GMT 0)
I am looking for any thoughts on over the counter calmatives. I will not add them to my Rx routine until I have discussed this with my doc. This new doc is not for me, I am looking for an alternative, but in the meantime he is all I have. I really need something that I can take during the day to help calm me down somewhat. I have tried calms forte, benadryl, even 3mg of melatonin. I have a strong tolerance to most meds, meds that make other people sleepy or calm usually need twice the dose for me to feel an impact. I wish a nice cup of chamomille would help me, but that is a waste of tea. Any ideas you may have to share will be appreciated. Thank you!
Posted 8/24/2008 10:13 PM (GMT 0)

Sera-

I read in "Treating & Beating Fibromyalgia & CFS" by Dr. Rodger Murphree that GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) is something that helps with anxiety and panic attacks. I have not tried it, but 500mg-1000mg  2-3 times (or as needed) per day on an empty stomach seems to be the recommended amount.

Hope that this helps and you will feel better soon!

Cyndi

Posted 8/24/2008 10:25 PM (GMT 0)
Sera,
There is a great way to calm yourself and lower your stress level called diaphragmic breathing. If you have ever watched a baby sleep on its back you can see how it's done. This breathing is accomplished by pushing your abdomen out as you inhale and NOT raising your shoulders. Inhale deeply this way, hold the breath for a few seconds and exhale slowly through pursed lips. Do three or four of these breaths then continue on your way. I like to do them at stop lights, while waiting in line at the grocery store or the bank and especially when I'm delivering wedding cakes and have to take the freeway.

The physiological reason that this works is because when you inhale by lowering your diaphragm you fill the lower lobes of your lungs where a stronger oxygen/CO2 exchange takes place. This also helps lower your blood pressure in the opposite way that the "fight or flight" syndrome works. With the stress release on your parasympathetic nervous system you get the side effects of calmness. This is the basis of the "Take a deep breath" routine that everyone says when someone is upset.
Posted 8/25/2008 1:20 AM (GMT 0)
Along with Jeannies breathing exercises, you might want to try meditation. There is a lot of focusing on your breathing also during the practice. It is a good way to calm yourself and you don't have to worry about a pill to take, it all comes from within the self.

Best wishes for your relaxation

hugs, Karen
Posted 8/25/2008 1:22 AM (GMT 0)
I have read that the herb Valerian has sedative properties, but I've never tried it myself so I can't tell you anything from personal experience.
Posted 8/25/2008 1:45 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you all for your suggestions. I will give some thought to all that you have mentioned, esp the meditation and deep breathing. I have decided to try the valerian for sleep. These other things can help me during the day.
Peace!
Posted 8/25/2008 2:41 AM (GMT 0)
Exerise can be a tremendous help. And yes, fibro folks can exercise. The trick is to find out what works for you.

Water exercise calms people down the best. It is a better relaxation method than yoga and tai chi Most people do not know that. Go to a pool and stretch and walk.

Donnaeil
Posted 8/25/2008 3:37 AM (GMT 0)
You are right about moderate exercise- I have just last week joined our local community rec ctr and I am taking classes for Seniors :) that are low impact cardio, strength training and flexibility, as well as a water fitness class [also for Srs] The Srs have welcomed me and sort of adopted me as their fitness granddaughter. Its fun and challenging at the same time. I hope this will help with lower back pain, insomnia and the daily crazies. Its not so much that I am anxious, its just that I need help with focusing and learning how to spend my energy in the best ways. Thanks again for your thoughts.
Peace! and I hope everyone has a painfree and productive Monday.
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