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Fibromyalgia: Showers vs. Baths

For those of you who have fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome...here are some thoughts about whether showering or bathing is a better option.  I recently read an article by a fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue expert on this topic.  I never stopped to think about what she says...but after reading the article I must say this is definitely food for thought.



Showering in the morning is something many of us find useful to help feel invigorated and ready to start the day.  But for those who suffer from the disorders in question, this can be a problem on a number of fronts.  Here are some examples:

1) Fibromyalgia patients often have heightened nerve response; even the pressure of the water droplets hitting the skin can be irritating.  While you might not take notice in the shower, this effect can overstimulate the nervous system and cause further problems all day long.

2) Taking a shower might cause more exertion than you may think.  It's possible that a morning shower can cause you to feel exhausted rather than awake!  If you really like showers, it might be nice to take a shower at bedtime so the exhaustion actually helps you to fall asleep.

3) Taking a shower with warm water (as most of us would prefer!) can be very relaxing; for most people that's not so bad but for those with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue it might be too relaxing to promote wakefulness.  Just as in the case of exertion, this might be better as part of night routine--helping to promote a good night's sleep.

4) Some of us have sensitivity to temperature, causing the warm shower droplets to throw off thermoregulation. Some folks even have the misfortune of sweating profusely after showering.

5) Those with chronic fatigue and/or fibromyalgia are prone to dizziness. The warm shower spray and the body movements involved in showering might not be a good situation...it might even be unsafe.




Keeping these things in mind,  it might be a good idea to take a shower before bedtime.  If some of the problems of showering are problematic, a bath might be the better choice.  Last but not least, a sponge bath, cleansing wipes, or baby wipes can help get through those times of extreme illness and fatigue.

Source: Adrienne Dellwo (about.com);wikia;openclipart


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