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Summer 2003 

One To One
Tips, strategies, ideas and helpful thoughts about CFIDS

Epsom salts ease pain
I have CFIDS and fibromyalgia, and I am chemically sensitive. I find that taking an Epsom salts bath relieves pain and stiffness in my muscles without any potentially irritating fragrances. I also believe that the baths loosen my bowels and relieve bloating without having to drink any of the salts. Be careful not to take hot baths when you’re fatigued; sometimes, it can make you more tired or even trigger a relapse.

It takes about two cups of Epsom salts to make a good bath. You can add one-half teaspoon of glycerin to the bath water as a moisturizer, if you wish.

A reader in Minnesota

Thump away the aches
As a former massage therapist, I cannot speak highly enough of the general benefits of massage. Recently I have discovered a new tool to handle the handle the muscle tightness, aches and tender trigger points. It’s called the Thumper Mini Pro 2. It has dramatically reduced, or temporarily eliminated, much of my worst pain. It is also wonderful for improving blood circulation and muscle tone. The product is available through the Sharper Image (800-3440-4444) or Wellness America (800-THUMPER).

Peter Anastasia, New Mexico

Get a celiac test
During the 16 years I’ve had CFIDS, the best advice I’ve been given was to be tested for celiac disease. A simple, three-part blood test confirmed I have it. Since I have been on a gluten-free diet my health has improved. Intestinal problems, headaches, insomnia and brain fog have all gotten better.

I highly recommend a book on the subject: “Wheat-free, Worry Free” (by Danna Korn; Hay House, 2002). It covers every aspect of celiac disease, plus other food allergies.

Diane Steinberg, South Carolina

Tuning out tinnitus
One of the most prominent symptoms of CFIDS for me is tinnitus, or constant ringing in the ears. It used to drive me crazy, but I have found several ways to block it out.

First, I use hearing aids. Because I hear other sounds better while wearing them, I tend to notice the tinnitus less.

Second, I try to avoid foods that make my tinnitus flare up. These include foods with caffeine, like coffee, tea, soft drinks and even chocolate. Salty foods can also cause flare-ups for me. I don’t smoke, but I know that smoking also increases the ringing for some people.

I also try to surround myself with pleasant background noises that help me forget about the ringing. I have several CDs of sounds – ocean waves, waterfalls, gentle rainstorms and meadow birds – that are naturally relaxing and don’t interfere with my concentration.

Finally, I try to make sure that I don’t make my tinnitus worse. That means wearing earplugs when I’m in loud places such as shopping malls and movie theaters. I use the small foam plugs that fit snugly inside your ear. People don’t even know you’re wearing them!

Jeannette, New York

Editor’s note: For more information on tinnitus, contact the American Tinnitus Association at 800-634-8978.