​Sensory deprivation tank float centers are popping up all over the United States and Europe, especially in urban areas where the demand for holistic healing surges. According to annual official Float Tank Industry reports, the U.S. was home to more than 300 float centers in 2015, up from about 85 in 2011, and the trend continues to grow.

Whether referred to as sensory deprivation tanks, float tanks or simply as “floating,” deprivation therapy treatments have earned a reputation for naturally easing many ailments.

Floaters report sensory deprivation tank benefits that include reduced insomnia, anxiety and depression, plus relief from chronic pain and even addictions. The beauty in all of this: These reported benefits are possible without a doctor’s visit, breaking a sweat or filling any prescriptions.

What Is a Sensory Deprivation Tank?Sensory deprivation is achieved through floating in a type of isolation tank that cuts off all sources of sensory experience: sound, sight, smell and touch.

Another way that floating is referred to in research studies is “restricted environmental stimulation technique,” or floating-REST.

What does floating in a deprivation tank do — or feel like? Proponents of floating told the the New York Times that a session can make you practically feel like an astronaut, saying “it’s something you can never experience otherwise.”

Float tanks (or sensory deprivation chambers) that are used for inducing sensory deprivation are filled with water that is almost the exact same temperature as the floater’s body, along with high amounts of Epsom salt (made from magnesium sulphate). The salts allow you to remain restfully floating at the water’s surface in complete silence and stillness.

During the entire session, floaters generally feel light and peaceful, without needing to exert any effort to stay afloat.

What are sensory deprivation tanks used for? As you’ll learn below, the main purpose of flotation-REST is eliciting a positive effect on physiology, including lowering levels of cortisol, reducing blood pressure and promoting positive feelings of well-being.

Studies show that increased mindfulness and decreased stress during float session reduce markers of bodily distress syndrome (BDS), aka symptoms caused by chronic stress. Researchers often use the term “BDS” to describe negative physiological changes that take place when someone is under a lot of stress. These BDS signs are now tied to things like fibromyalgia symptoms, chronic fatigue syndrome and somatization disorder.

History of Floating:

Although the benefits of float tanks only recently garnered lots of buzz, they’ve actually been around since the 1950s and used in Europe on and off since the ’70s.

At the time of sensory deprivation tank creation, psychoanalytic researchers and neuroscientists used the tanks mainly to test effects on things like creativity, connection to others and concentration.

Some report that float tanks can actually bring about a “psychedelic experience.” Over the last few decades, esoteric communities promote floating as a way to promote “spiritual awakeness,” emotional breakthroughs and enhanced clarity of mind.

While these benefits are difficult to prove, research published in the Journal of Complementary & Behavioral Medicine now suggests that sensory deprivation may actually work by reducing the body’s stress response, inducing deep relaxation and quieting mental chatter.

A slew of research now shows that “floatation therapy” is an effective, noninvasive method for treating stress-related illnesses and pain, more so than a placebo or even many other methods currently used in complementary medicine.

Benefits1. More ‘Mindfulness’ and Reduced StressThe 2014 Journal of Complementary & Behavioral Medicine study mentioned above, which tested the effects of sensory deprivation on markers of quality of life in 65 adult patients as part of a cooperative health project, found a significant correlation between “altered states of consciousness during the relaxation in the flotation tank” and “mindfulness in daily life.”

Scientists randomized study participants to either a wait list control group or a flotation tank treatment group. The sensory deprivation tank group participated in a seven-week flotation program, consisting of a total of 12 float sessions.

After being tested for measures of psychological and physiological well-being — including variables like stress, energy, depression, anxiety, optimism, pain, sleep quality and mindfulness — results showed significant reductions in:

• Stress responses
• Depression symptoms
• Anxiety
• Pain

Scientists also observed improvements in general optimism, sleep quality and “mindful presence” (or awareness) during the study.

Reduced Anxiety and Depression

In 2016, researchers from the Department of Psychology at Karlstad University in Sweden tested the effects of sensory deprivation tank floating on symptoms of anxiety disorders, including general anxiety disorder (GAD), which remains one of the most challenging mental health problems to treat. Study findings showed that GAD symptomatology significantly changed for the better for the 12-session float group over a four-month period.
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In fact, 37 percent of participants in the float-treatment group reached full remission from GAD symptoms at post-treatment, while the majority experienced at least some significant beneficial effects related to sleep difficulties, problems with emotional regulation and depression. All improved outcome variables at post-treatment, except for certain symptoms of depression, remained at the six-month follow-up point after the study. No negative effects surfaced in the floaters.

Improved Energy and Work Productivity

Stress-related illnesses now top the most common reasons for reduced productivity at work, employees using sick days, lost sleep and employee fatigue. Problems attributed to stress include mental fatigue (also called “brain fog“), lack of concentration, burnout syndrome, migraines or tension headaches, and digestive or gastric complaints.

Facing these daunting stats, more employers are offering complimentary floating sessions or similar approaches, like breaks for meditation, in order to keep stress levels low.

While stress reduction is a common doctor’s recommendation for patients who are already dealing with these problems, it seems to be most helpful when stress is prevented or managed before it reaches damaging levels. There’s evidence that sensory deprivation floating is now considered a cost-effective, natural and helpful stress-preventative method for decreasing potential sick-leave absences and increasing general well-being in the workplace.

Less Pain

Several studies, as well as patient testimonials, suggest float tanks could serve as natural painkillers. The primary way that floating helps ease pain is through evoking a relaxation response, which eases tense muscles and helps improve rest and recovery.

One study examining the effects of placebo treatments versus flotation tank therapy found that floating sessions reduced stress-related muscular pain in patients diagnosed with “burnout depression.”
The patients treated with this flotation-restricted environmental stimulation technique for six to 12 weeks exhibited less pain, lower blood pressure levels, less anxiety and depression, reduced feelings of stress and negativity, and increased happiness/optimism, energy and positive affectivity.

Help Overcoming Addictions

A study from the ’90s aimed at identifying the effectiveness of sensory deprivation on reducing addiction found that “REST is a versatile, cost-effective treatment modality with demonstrated effectiveness in modifying some addictive behaviors, and has promising applications with others.”

Interestingly, patients addicted to nicotine, alcohol or drugs generally saw improvements associated with refocusing the mind or rebalancing the various physical and mental effects of stress.

According to science, sensory deprivation helps patients overcome addictions by:

• Induction of a general relaxation response
• Serenity and relief by non-chemical means
• Internal refocusing to concentrate on personal problems
• Disruption of habits through removal of trigger cues and response possibilities
• Increased feelings of control over addictive behaviors
• Enhanced learning processes

Research findings related to treating addictive behaviors with REST now support its use for:

• Quitting smoking
• Overeating
• Alcohol consumption
• Drug misuse

The most support for floating involves smoking cessation help, while many believe more research is needed overall to recommend floating for other drug problems.

How Does It Work?

What does sensory deprivation do? Sensory deprivation tanks help induce a deep state of relaxation (also called a “relaxation response” or RR) by turning down the body’s “fight or flight” stress response.

Evoking a natural relaxation response is considered an effective remedy for stress-related symptoms because it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, while at the same time decreasing activity of the sympathetic nervous system.

Essentially, floating helps lower cortisol levels and calm the nervous system, bringing the immune and hormonal systems back into balance.

Studies show that self deprivation sessions can help lower the heart rate, normalize blood pressure levels, restore a normal breathing rate (respiratory frequency) and normalize digestive functions.

In stressful or busy situations, we’re best able to induce a relaxation response by decreasing sensory input and bodily movements as much as possible. During a flotation therapy session, nearly all incoming stimuli and sensations are reduced or completely eliminated.

There is no music playing, no guided meditation or directions, and nothing else to hear besides your own breath. There are no lights — tanks are kept very dark.

Floaters don’t even feel water on the skin because it’s heated to nearly exact skin temperature.

Can you sleep in a sensory deprivation tank? While it’s possible, this is not the purpose.
Time in a sensory deprivation tank is similar to solo or guided meditation in that the mind tends to become very peaceful, allowing stress to melt away, but you remain awake.

Who Should Try Floating?

Floating enthusiasts told the New York Times that anyone looking to “stretch their artistic, spiritual and even athletic boundaries” can benefit from floating. After reviewing participants’ reports regarding floating’s effects, researchers even concluded this:

“Many of the participants had been using a range of different methods to reduce pain, stress and other individual health issues prior to floating. Medicines, yoga, massage and physiotherapy were some of the treatments mentioned, and never had they so successfully been relieved from pain, tension, stress, etc.”
Those looking for more of a scientifically supported reason to try floating will be happy to know it’s backed up by much ongoing research. Although there’s still lots to learn regarding the physiological effects of sensory deprivation, floating is believed to potentially help alleviate all sorts of stress-related problems, like:

• Mood-related disorders and symptoms of depression or anxiety
• Addictions or symptoms of withdrawal
• Headaches
• Low immune function
• “Burnout” and frequent sick days among employees
• Chronic fatigue and low energy
• Jet lag
• Trouble focusing, restlessness, distractions or brain fog
• Chronic pain and muscle tension, often tied to high stress levels
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia

Cost

Sensory deprivation tank costs depend on factors like the type of facility you visit, length of sessions and how many sessions you purchase.

Most one -to two-hour sessions cost anywhere from $30 to $150. Many places offer float packages, helping keep costs down in exchange for committing to a certain number of floats up front.

Sensory deprivation tank prices can be high in some states, so shop around different facilities, and ask about intro offers.

Here’s what else you can expect if you decide to try a sensory deprivation floating session:

• Most people choose to float for about 45 minutes to two hours. However, some go for even longer, up to eight hours if they visit a float lab where they can sleep in the float tank overnight.
• People have the option to leave the tank early if they feel uneasy. However, most experts suggest that you try to wait out the duration of at least your first session to experience and embrace all of the different feelings that may come up.
• The deprivation tanks themselves are big enough to fit your body when lying down flat, but don’t leave too much room for moving around. Most are about the size of a “large coffin,” which can leave some people feeling confined and uneasy.
• Tanks hold about 10 inches of water and about 1,000 pounds of dissolved Epsom salt. The salt is what allows for floating in water without effort. The floater stays elevated during the session without needing to swim or tread.
• In case you’re wondering, floating for one to two hours in a salt tank isn’t bad for your skin, and you won’t get wrinkly or cold. The water stays the same temperature as your body, adding to the “deprivation” feeling. Most say that their hair and skin feels soft afterward, not dried out like you may expect.

Risks and Side Effects

Although most who try sensory deprivation tanks report really enjoying the experience with no unwanted side effects, not all do. Some facilities may lack proper sanitation, including reports of moldy tanks, off-putting smells and dirty tank water.

Depending on your personality and how well you deal with feeling isolated inside small, closed spaces, it’s also possible that you could feel even more anxious or restless during a float session. If you find it hard to stay in small spaces without feeling tense, like crowded subways or packed cars, you may not like how floating feels.

• To avoid potentially becoming sick or catching something like a fungal infection, do your research, and be sure to visit a facility with strong reviews and recommendations.
• Also check on the facilities’ guidelines for hygiene and cleanliness. Shower after floating, and wash all clothes that you may wear during a session.
• If you’re unsure of how you’ll react to isolation and deprivation, aim to do a shorter session at first, just 30 to 60 minutes.
• Never stop taking any medications or attempt to self-treat any physical or mental problem without discussing this with your doctor first.
• Can you drown in a sensory deprivation tank? This is very unlikely, although not impossible, because the tanks are very shallow, similar to a bathtub. However, children shouldn’t be left alone in a tank for this reason.

​Conclusion

• Sensory deprivation tanks are also called float tanks, floating-REST or simply “floating.”
• Floating research suggests that sensory deprivation tank benefits include helping those with muscular pains, anxiety, trouble concentrating, depression, trouble sleeping, burnout, addictions and fatigue.
• Sessions work by reducing all sources of incoming stimuli, helping floaters reduce stress, enter a deep state of relaxation and calm the nervous system. This helps increase immune function and regulates output of stress hormones like cortisol.
• Sensory deprivation tank experiences are very unlikely to cause negative side effects, but if you feel anxious in enclosed, dark areas, it may not be for you. -Shared by Dr. Axe

 ​When it comes to staying healthy, I believe in prevention first. By prevention I don’t mean vaccines and screening tests. I believe in cultivating true health from the inside out by adopting healthy habits such as proper diet and exercise, an enjoyable family and social life, and a personal spiritual practice.
Yet, even healthy people sometimes get sick. And with “cold and flu season” approaching I want to share some of the best ways I know to stay healthy naturally and some natural ways you can treat symptoms so you can recover quickly if you do get sick.

10 Ways to Avoid Getting Sick

1. Keep your gut healthy. In the cooler months, it can be tempting to load up on comfort foods. And I’m all for nourishing yourself emotionally, but it’s important not to forget healthy eating habits altogether. Remember, 80 percent of your immune system is in your gut microbiome. The best way to improve your microbiome is through your diet. So, be sure to eat a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including lots of dark leafy greens, berries, onions, and raw garlic. You may also want to add fermented foods that contain probiotics and prebiotics. This is an easy way to seed your gut with beneficial bacteria. Adding spices such as ginger, cumin, turmeric, oregano, and cinnamon to your food can help to improve your digestion, and they have the added benefit of boosting your immune system because they have antibacterial properties. When you want to indulge in rich foods, try high-quality dairy, nuts and seeds, organic meats and fatty fish, and healthy fats.
2. Take vitamin D. Getting your vitamin D levels in optimal range (between 50 and 100 ng/mL) can help prevent disease, including seasonal affective disorder (S.A.D.), multiple sclerosis, and even breast cancer! In the winter, it can be hard to get enough sunlight for your body to create vitamin D. So, ask your health care practitioner to order a 25-hydroxy vitamin D to determine your levels. Or better yet, go to Grassrootshealth.net and order a home test kit. (You don’t need a doctor’s prescription.) If you have low vitamin D, take 5,000 IU per day of a high-quality vitamin D supplement, and continue to monitor your levels. Remember, it’s still important to get as much natural light as you can. This will help you maintain a positive attitude, which will help boost your immune system.
3. Wash your hands. Washing your hands is the easiest way to prevent colds and flu and to keep from spreading them. The proper way to wash your hands is to rub them together for at least 30 seconds with hot water and plain old soap. Be sure to get the backs of your hands, in between your fingers, and under your nails. Then dry your hands thoroughly. Don’t go overboard with the antibacterial soap and hand sanitizer, and don’t allow yourself to get all “germ obsessed.” When your immune system is healthy, it will protect you.
4. Take a multivitamin mineral supplement. In addition to taking vitamin D, a good multivitamin mineral supplement can help boost your immune system and keep you feeling good. Be sure to look for a high-quality supplement that contains vitamins A and C, along with the minerals zinc and selenium and the amino acid L-carnitine. Glutathione is an important immune-enhancing antioxidant that has been shown to help support your liver, the organ primarily responsible for detox in your body. Turmeric is a great free radical scavenger and does double duty to improve joint and cardiovascular health. If you are under stress, you may want to add an adaptogen, such as ashwagandha, to your supplement routine. And don’t forget to take enough magnesium. Remember, vitamins are not magic bullets, but they can help support your body when used properly. Take the supplements that feel right for your body, and remember that what is right for you now may change, so trust your intuition.
5. Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep is important for your brain and every organ in your body. When I feel like I am getting sick, sleep is my number one remedy because it allows my body to repair. As the days get shorter, take your cue from the sun and go to bed earlier. (You can benefit from doing this even if you are not feeling sick.) Limit caffeine, avoid alcohol, and turn off the television, computer, and phone at least 1 hour before going to bed. Here are some more ways to get a good night’s sleep.
6. Clean your cell phone. Cell phones, computers, and other surfaces you touch frequently can harbor bacteria and viruses, such as rhinoviruses, for up to 48 hours! You can easily clean your phone with an antibacterial microfiber cloth and spray cleanser suited for your device. Also, don’t use other people’s devices if you can avoid it.
7. Keep your sinuses moist. Dry air can cause dry sinuses, and this can certainly be uncomfortable. Keeping your nasal passages moist can help prevent symptoms such as pain and nose bleeds and can even help prevent colds. An easy way to keep your sinuses moist and healthy is to use a saline nasal wash every day. You can buy saline nasal rinses and sprays such as NeilMed Sinus Rinse or Xlear Nasal Spray over the counter. Or you can use a neti pot and make you own saline solution with Himalayan neti salt and warm water. Another way to keep your sinuses healthy this winter is to use humidifiers to keep the air in your environment moist.
8. Move your body. Regular exercise strengthens your immune system. It also makes you feel good. If the winter months make you less likely to get outside for exercise, try doing an indoor workout. There are so many at-home workouts that you can do without owning any gym equipment. Just look on YouTube or other websites for inspiration and routines. You can also try group exercise classes, which not only will keep you moving but will help you stay connected to others and is another great way to strengthen your immune system.
9. Take a sauna. Saunas have many health benefits, and some studies show that regular saunas can reduce your chance of getting a cold by 30 percent. In addition, infrared saunas have even been shown to help prevent a cold from getting worse. One of the reasons is that a sauna-induced fever may stimulate the immune system to increase production of white blood cells and antibodies.
10. Exhale. This is not science but common sense. If you see someone coughing and sneezing around you, don’t inhale. Try to slowly exhale until you are well out of range of the possible contaminants—about 10 feet.

Natural Ways to Speed Recovery If You Get Sick

When I get a cold or the flu, it’s usually because I’ve been overdoing things and not getting enough quality sleep. The first thing I do if I become sleep deprived is to allow my body the time to recover. In addition to getting much-needed rest, I like to use the remedies I can find in my kitchen rather than take medicines if I don’t really need to. And you can, too. For example, the B.R.A.T. (bananas, rice, apple sauce, toast) diet is good if you are recovering from an upset stomach or diarrhea. And adding spices to your food can help ease nasal congestion. These are just a couple of ways you can feel better faster.
Here are 9 more easy ways you can recover naturally from common ailments:

1. Try homeopathy. Homeopathic remedies work with your body to help it heal on a deep, energetic level. For colds and flu-like symptoms, try oscillococcinum. This works whether or not you have been officially diagnosed with the flu to relieve some of the worst symptoms, including fever, congestion, sore throat, and body aches. You can find oscillococcinum at Whole Foods and many drugstores. I also recommend having a homeopathic emergency kit on hand. You can find these online at www.a2zhomeopathy.com. Usually, the 30C kit is all you need.
2. Load up on vitamin C. Vitamin C can do wonders to help you recover from a virus. In fact, IV vitamin C was once used to treat polio, which it cured in some cases. I keep 1,000 mg capsules of ascorbic acid in my home at all times and take it the minute I feel a sore throat or runny nose coming on. I recommend taking 1,000–2,000 mg every hour or so until you reach what is called “bowel tolerance.” At this point, you begin to have loose stools, which means your body is saturated with vitamin C. The amount of vitamin C it takes to get to this point varies.
3. Try echinacea. Echinacea (purple coneflower) has been used for centuries, and studies show it can reduce the duration of a cold. In addition, echinacea may help prevent the common cold.
4. Drink tea. Drinking green tea throughout the day can boost immune function. Add lemon to help thin mucus and honey to soothe a sore throat and fight bacteria that cause infection. Elderberry tea (or elderberry extract in water) is high in antioxidants and can help fight flu symptoms and shorten the duration by several days. If you don’t have any tea or elderberry, you can simply boil some pure water, add a little grated ginger, and take “hot sips” regularly throughout the day.
5. Eat mushrooms. . Mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries to treat a variety of illnesses, maintain health, and prevent disease. Mushrooms are a true superfood. They are prebiotic, so they can improve your microbiome. In addition, mushrooms are a great source of vitamin D. And certain mushrooms are high in antioxidants, such as ergothioneine and glutathione. Some of the best mushrooms to add to your diet to boost immunity include porcini, golden oyster and oyster, pioppini, lion’s mane, maitake, and shiitake. But adding just about any edible mushrooms to your diet can help improve your health.
6. Sip soup. Chicken soup is not only good for the soul, but it can also be good for your body. Chicken soup contains an amino acid (L-cysteine) that can ease bronchial symptoms much like acetylcysteine, a drug used to treat bronchitis, asthma, and other lung diseases. It also contains electrolytes and other nutrients.
7. Gargle with salt. Gargling with salt can ease your sore throat and may actually kill viruses and bacteria in your throat.
8. Do nothing. There are times when you should not treat symptoms. For example, fevers can clear your body of viruses and bacteria. If you have a fever under 102°F, avoid the urge to treat it. You may be uncomfortable for a day or two, but allowing your body to work the way it was designed is often the best thing. Plus, many women will treat a fever then go about their day as they normally would. Avoid doing this! Your body needs rest to recover from illness.
9. Take a nitric oxide supplement. Nitric oxide is the miracle gas molecule that affects nearly every organ and system in your body, and some studies show that nitric oxide may play an important anti-inflammatory and antiviral role in preventing colds and improving cold symptoms. For example, one study indicated that higher levels of nitric oxide are associated with fewer cold symptoms and more rapid clearance of viral infections.

Supplements to Prevent and Treat COVID-19

In addition to everything I have mentioned above, there are some specific ways you can protect your immune system to help prevent COVID-19 infection.

As I have already mentioned, optimal vitamin D levels can help prevent acute respiratory infections. This includes both influenza and COVID-19. One possible way vitamin D strengthens the immune system is by regulating cytokine production.

Keeping a healthy gut microbiome is also an important factor in preventing COVID-19 infection as well as other illnesses. A less-than-optimal gut microbiome is associated with proinflammatory cytokines that could predispose you to severe COVID-19. The good news is your gut microbiome responds quickly to what you feed it. So, changing your diet to support your gut microbiome is an easy way to improve your immunity and stave off COVID-19 and other infections. Taking a high-quality probiotic is also a good way to improve your gut microbiome.

Zinc deficiency has been associated with more severe COVID-19 illness. Zinc deficiency can be caused by malnutrition, chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, and even some medications that increase the body’s loss of zinc, such as diuretics. Taking a zinc supplement alone or in combination with a zinc ionophore (such as hydroxychloroquine) has been proven effective in both preventing and treating COVID-19, especially in the early stages. Some experts do not recommend long-term use of zinc supplements because too-high doses over a long period of time can cause copper deficiency and subsequent hematologic and neurologic issues. However, zinc supplements and nasal sprays containing 50 mg of zinc are safe for daily use, especially if you feel a cold coming on. I like Vimergy liquid zinc. I take a small amount daily and more if I am coming down with a cold. You can also get adequate levels of zinc by eating meat, shellfish, chicken, nuts, and lentils.

Another supplement that is instrumental in helping to fight off coronavirus infections is quercetin. Quercetin is a flavonoid that has antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. There is a large body of research showing that quercetin can help fight obesity, type 2 diabetes, circulatory dysfunction, chronic inflammation, high blood pressure, and mood disorders. It has also been found to trigger tumor regression and begin the process of apoptosis. In 2003, when the SARS epidemic broke out, research showed quercetin provided broad-spectrum protection against the SARS coronavirus. In June 2020, a study showed that quercetin interfered in multiple steps of pathogen virulence, virus entry, virus replication, and protein assembly and recommended its use against SARS-CoV-2, in combination with vitamin C because of their synergistic effects. You can take 500 mg of quercetin twice per day. Supplementing with vitamin C will enhance the effect.

Finally, melatonin is shown to help support immune function and prevent severe COVID-19 infection. Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland. Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic reported that patients who were taking melatonin had a nearly 30 percent lower likelihood of testing positive for COVID-19 after adjusting for age, race, smoking history, and various disease comorbidities; the likelihood of testing positive for the virus increased from 30 to 52 percent for African Americans who took the supplement. The usual dose is 0.5–3 mg taken 1 hour prior to bedtime. However, some doctors recommend 3–6 mg. Children should not take melatonin.

Over-the-Counter Treatments to Prevent COVID-19The CDC has now admitted that fully vaccinated people are not necessarily protected from contracting the Delta variant and can spread it. (This is known as viral immune escape, which immunologists should be talking about!) In fact, some studies show that vaccinated people can have up to 1,000 times more viral load in their noses and mouths than unvaccinated, and therefore can (and are) passing this much higher viral load to others—vaccinated and unvaccinated alike.

One easy way to help protect yourself from contracting COVID-19 is to take measures to reduce the SARS-CoV-2 pathogen load in your own respiratory and nasal secretions. Using a simple povidone iodine (brand name Betadine) mouth rinse and nose spray is an easy way to do this. You simply take a few drops of Betadine in water, swish it in your mouth, gargle and spit it out. For your nose you can either use a dropper or sprayer, spray the same diluted solution into each nostril and snort it out. Do this twice per day.
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Iodine has been used for a long time as a safe and effective antimicrobial. You probably remember your mother putting it on scrapes when you were a child. However, if you are allergic to iodine or cannot use it for some other reason, you can use diluted hydrogen peroxide.  Some over-the-counter mouthwashes, such as Listerine, may also be effective for gargling. A placebo-controlled clinical trial testing 4 antiseptic mouthwash/gargling solutions is currently underway. -Shared from ​Christiane Northrup, M.D.

​A close cousin to the uterine fibroid is the polyp.  Both will cause many of the same symptoms, but the latter is usually non cancerous.  

​Uterine polyps are growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that extend into the uterine cavity. Overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus (endometrium) leads to the formation of uterine polyps, also known as endometrial polyps. These polyps are usually noncancerous (benign), although some can be cancerous or can eventually turn into cancer (precancerous polyps).

Uterine polyps range in size from a few millimeters — no larger than a sesame seed — to several centimeters — golf-ball-size or larger. They attach to the uterine wall by a large base or a thin stalk.

You can have one or many uterine polyps. They usually stay contained within your uterus, but occasionally, they slip down through the opening of the uterus (cervix) into your vagina. Uterine polyps most commonly occur in women who are going through or have completed menopause, although younger women can get them, too.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of uterine polyps include:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding — for example, having frequent, unpredictable periods of variable length and heaviness
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
• Excessively heavy menstrual periods
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Infertility

Some women have only light bleeding or spotting; others are symptom-free.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical care if you have:

• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Bleeding between menstrual periods
• Irregular menstrual bleeding

Causes

Hormonal factors appear to play a role. Uterine polyps are estrogen-sensitive, meaning they grow in response to circulating estrogen.

Risk factors

Risk factors for developing uterine polyps include:

• Being perimenopausal or postmenopausal
• Having high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Being obese
• Taking tamoxifen, a drug therapy for breast cancer

​Diagnosis

If your doctor suspects you have uterine polyps, he or she might perform one of the following:

• Transvaginal ultrasound. A slender, wand-like device placed in your vagina emits sound waves and creates an image of your uterus, including its interior. Your doctor may see a polyp that's clearly present or may identify a uterine polyp as an area of thickened endometrial tissue.
  A related procedure, known as hysterosonography (his-tur-o-suh-NOG-ruh-fee) — also called sonohysterography (son-oh-his-tur-OG-ruh-fee) — involves having salt water (saline) injected into your uterus through a small tube threaded through your vagina and cervix. The saline expands your uterine cavity, which gives the doctor a clearer view of the inside of your uterus during the ultrasound.
• Hysteroscopy. Your doctor inserts a thin, flexible, lighted telescope (hysteroscope) through your vagina and cervix into your uterus. Hysteroscopy allows your doctor to examine the inside of your uterus.
• Endometrial biopsy. Your doctor might use a suction catheter inside the uterus to collect a specimen for lab testing. Uterine polyps may be confirmed by an endometrial biopsy, but the biopsy could also miss the polyp.

Most uterine polyps are noncancerous (benign). However, some precancerous changes of the uterus (endometrial hyperplasia) or uterine cancers (endometrial carcinomas) appear as uterine polyps. Your doctor will likely recommend removal of the polyp and will send a tissue sample for lab analysis to be certain you don't have uterine cancer.

Treatment

For uterine polyps, your doctor might recommend:

• Watchful waiting. Small polyps without symptoms might resolve on their own. Treatment of small polyps is unnecessary unless you're at risk of uterine cancer.
• Medication. Certain hormonal medications, including progestins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, may lessen symptoms of the polyp. But taking such medications is usually a short-term solution at best — symptoms typically recur once you stop taking the medicine.
• Surgical removal. During hysteroscopy, instruments inserted through the hysteroscope — the device your doctor uses to see inside your uterus — make it possible to remove polyps. The removed polyp will likely be sent to a lab for microscopic examination.

If a uterine polyp contains cancerous cells, your doctor will talk with you about the next steps in evaluation and treatment.
​
Rarely, uterine polyps can recur. If they do, you might need more treatment.

Apparently, uterine fibroids are quite common as we begin to get older and can cause a myriad of problems such as:

Pain areas: in the abdomen, lower back, difficulty or pelvis pain, difficulty urinating
Menstrual: abnormal menstruation, heavy menstruation, irregular menstruation, painful menstruation, or spotting
Also common: abdominal distension or cramping

​they are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often first appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas (lie-o-my-O-muhs) or myomas, uterine fibroids aren't associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer.

Fibroids range in size from seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You can have a single fibroid or multiple ones. In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage and can add weight.

Many women have uterine fibroids sometime during their lives. But you might not know you have uterine fibroids because they often cause no symptoms. Your doctor may discover fibroids incidentally during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound.

Rarely, a fibroid can cause acute pain when it outgrows its blood supply, and begins to die.

Fibroids are generally classified by their location. Intramural fibroids grow within the muscular uterine wall. Submucosal fibroids bulge into the uterine cavity. Subserosal fibroids project to the outside of the uterus.
When to see a doctorSee your doctor if you have:

• Pelvic pain that doesn't go away
• Overly heavy, prolonged or painful periods
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Difficulty emptying your bladder
• Unexplained low red blood cell count (anemia)

Seek prompt medical care if you have severe vaginal bleeding or sharp pelvic pain that comes on suddenly.

​Diagnosis

Pelvic exam
Uterine fibroids are frequently found incidentally during a routine pelvic exam. Your doctor may feel irregularities in the shape of your uterus, suggesting the presence of fibroids.
If you have symptoms of uterine fibroids, your doctor may order these tests:

• Ultrasound. If confirmation is needed, your doctor may order an ultrasound. It uses sound waves to get a picture of your uterus to confirm the diagnosis and to map and measure fibroids.
  A doctor or technician moves the ultrasound device (transducer) over your abdomen (transabdominal) or places it inside your vagina (transvaginal) to get images of your uterus.
• Lab tests. If you have abnormal menstrual bleeding, your doctor may order other tests to investigate potential causes. These might include a complete blood count (CBC) to determine if you have anemia because of chronic blood loss and other blood tests to rule out bleeding disorders or thyroid problems.

If traditional ultrasound doesn't provide enough information, your doctor may order other imaging studies, such as:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This imaging test can show in more detail the size and location of fibroids, identify different types of tumors and help determine appropriate treatment options. An MRI is most often used in women with a larger uterus or in women approaching menopause (perimenopause).
• Hysterosonography. Hysterosonography (his-tur-o-suh-NOG-ruh-fee), also called a saline infusion sonogram, uses sterile saline to expand the uterine cavity, making it easier to get images of submucosal fibroids and the lining of the uterus in women attempting pregnancy or who have heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Hysterosalpingography. Hysterosalpingography (his-tur-o-sal-ping-GOG-ruh-fee) uses a dye to highlight the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes on X-ray images. Your doctor may recommend it if infertility is a concern. This test can help your doctor determine if your fallopian tubes are open or are blocked and can show some submucosal fibroids.
• Hysteroscopy. For this, your doctor inserts a small, lighted telescope called a hysteroscope through your cervix into your uterus. Your doctor then injects saline into your uterus, expanding the uterine cavity and allowing your doctor to examine the walls of your uterus and the openings of your fallopian tubes.

After a brief examination on the table it was decided I would need more invasive testing which included a hysteroscopy, D & C, and removal of the fibroid. 

Bleeding post menopause will rile up anyone's day.  Nothing worse than feeling the onset of cramping, that hasn't been experienced in years, accompanied by bleeding.  One's first precaution is to dive into the internet to see if you are not being afflicted with the big "C".  Step two is to call your GYN and ensure you are not harboring a mass of some sort. 

It's not that fibromyalgia offers a myriad of nuances as it is, try adding a bit of cramping, fatigue, and deviant emotions to your day that you haven't experienced for 15 years.  Yet, according to a recent study in NICHD titled, "Women with Endometriosis Have Higher Rates of Some Diseases," researchers found that woman who suffer from Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have a higher risk for issues such as endometrial hyperplasia. That is due to this disease involving pain in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition in which the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) becomes abnormally thick. Although endometrial hyperplasia is not cancer, it can lead to uterine cancer in some women.

Endometrial hyperplasia is usually caused by an excess of estrogen without progesterone (female hormones). The progesterone is not made and the lining of the uterus is not shed if ovulation does not occur. This means that the endometrium may continue to grow in response to the production of estrogen. The cells of the endometrium may abnormally crowd (hyperplasia), which may lead to the cancer of the uterus.

What is atypical endometrial hyperplasia?

Atypical endometrial hyperplasia is a premalignant condition of the endometrium. It occurs when there is an overgrowth of abnormal cells, or it may develop from endometrial hyperplasia. In some cases, polyps (tumors) in the uterus can lead to atypical endometrial hyperplasia.

Who is at risk for developing atypical endometrial hyperplasia?

Atypical endometrial hyperplasia usually develops in older women (after menopause). But it can develop in younger women if they do not ovulate or are obese.

What are the causes of atypical endometrial hyperplasia?

Atypical endometrial hyperplasia develops when there is no balance between the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone. This imbalance is called unopposed estrogen and it may be caused by a number of factors including:

• Hormone changes during menopause (cessation of menstrual period)
• Estrogen-hormone replacement therapy
• Breast cancer treatment, using drugs such as tamoxifen (Nolvadex®, Tamofen®)

What are the symptoms of atypical endometrial hyperplasia?

Abnormal vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of atypical endometrial hyperplasia. Less common symptoms include abnormal vaginal discharges or an abnormal Pap test result.

An interesting comment my doctor asked first was, "Have you been sick recently?" 

"No," I replied

"Have you been under any stress lately?" he asked.

"Well, yes, but nothing out of the ordinary," I answered.

"Because stress plays a vital role in disrupting your hormone levels," he concluded.

You can bet i will be on another adventure here, offering you vital information on this topic upcoming.  He also prescribed progesterone therapy to regain my hormonal balance.  

​The new coronavirus — or COVID-19 — is spreading across the United States. Health officials are working to understand how to contain it. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends that everyone in the general public wear a cloth mask in addition to continuing to follow social distancing guidelines when they must go out into public.

Path to improved health

At first, the CDC said not to wear a mask. Why do we now need to wear cloth masks?

As we receive more data about COVID-19, we are learning more about how it spreads. Data shows that many people already have the virus who do not know that they have it. They are asymptomatic, or not showing symptoms. It can take up to 14 days for a person who has been infected to develop symptoms. That means that when these people go to places like grocery stores and cough or sneeze, they are unintentionally spreading the virus.

The new CDC recommendation is not intended to prevent you from getting COVID-19; it is to protect other people. In order to flatten the curve or slow the rate of spread of the virus in your community, assume that you already have the virus. Wearing a cloth mask will help to contain your own germs should you cough or sneeze in a public place. It will help to prevent you from giving COVID-19 to other people.

Should I try to buy a surgical mask or an N95 respirator?

No. Only health care professionals should wear surgical masks or N95 respirators. We are currently experiencing shortages of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the doctors, nurses, and other health care professionals who are working to fight COVID-19. Do not use a surgical mask or N95 respirator if you are not a health care professional. If you already have some of these in your home, you can donate them to a local hospital or health care facility.

Do I still need to practice social distancing?

Yes. Wearing a mask should not take the place of social distancing. You should still stay at least 6 feet away from other people when you go out in public. A cloth mask may help to prevent you from giving the virus to others, but it does not protect you (the wearer). It is still important that you stay home as much as possible and continue to properly wash your hands.
What makes an effective cloth mask?An effective cloth mask should:

• Cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of the face.
• Be secured to the ear with ties or loops.
• Include multiple layers of fabric.
• Allow for breathing without restriction.
• Be machine washable and dryable without losings its shape or fit.

How do I make my own cloth mask?

The CDC has posted instructions for how to make your own cloth mask from materials you may already have at home. You can use a t-shirt or a bandana to make your own cloth mask. See instructions from the CDC.

Things to consider

When you wear a mask, it is important to know how to wear it properly. When using a mask, you should:

• Wash your hands with soap and water before putting on the mask. If you do not have soap and water available, used an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Cover your mouth and nose with the mask. Make sure it is snug to your face.
• Do not touch the mask while using it. Do not touch any other areas of your face.
• As soon as you return home, take the mask off and put it in the wash.
• Remove the mask by touching it from behind. Do not touch the front of the mask. Throw it in the washing machine and wash your hands immediately.

Click Below for Walmart Masks 50 for $11.60

With the advent of many businesses reopening it is normal to feel a bit of excitement as we begin to transition to normalcy.  

But this is not a time to let your guard down just yet.  Rather it's time to renew pertinent information as we head down the road of another month.

COVID-19, short for coronavirus disease 2019, is an infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). SARS-CoV-2 is a newly identified pathogen that has not previously been seen in humans and is highly contagious.

Although it belongs to the same category of viruses as SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2 is a different strain with its own characteristics. 

COVID-19 was first reported in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, and the outbreak has spread quickly across the world, prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare COVID-19 a pandemic.
How does COVID-19 spread?Because COVID-19 is a new virus, nobody has prior immunity to it, meaning the entire human population is prone to infection.

It primarily spreads via respiratory droplets when people cough or sneeze. Scientists have yet to understand how easily and sustainably the disease can spread among people. Based on available evidence, researchers do not think airborne spread is a major transmission route. 

Individuals over age 60 are at the highest risk of developing a severe case of COVID-19, while children do not seem to be at a higher risk than adults.

There are currently no reports about how susceptible pregnant women may be to COVID-19 or about transmission of the virus through breast milk.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms of COVID-19 begin two to 14 days after exposure. They include fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Other symptoms include sputum production, shortness of breath, sore throat, headache, myalgia (muscle pain) or arthralgia (joint pain), chills, vomiting, and nasal congestion. Less frequent symptoms include diarrhea, hemoptysis (coughing up blood from the respiratory tract), and conjunctival congestion.

Most of these symptoms are usually mild, and about 80% of people who get the virus will typically recover without needing any special treatment. However, about 1 in 6 patients become seriously ill and develop breathing difficulties.

What general preventive measures should people take?

The following simple preventive measures can help minimize the spread of COVID-19: 

• Wash your hands often with soap, lathering both the front and the back of the hands and fingers for at least 15 to 20 seconds. If soap is not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control produced a poster detailing effective handwashing.
• Avoid close contact with someone who is ill. (Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet, or 1.8 meters).
• Stay at home if you are sick.
• Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze and dispose of it properly afterward.
• Disinfect surfaces and objects you touch frequently. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

​

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does not recommend that healthy people wear a face mask.

But as a measure of precaution, it is always best to go out with a mask, preferably an N95.

Is there any specific advice for fibromyalgia patients take?

Because fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune disease, patients are not thought to be more at risk of COVID-19 than someone without the disease. People with fibromyalgia should follow the advice provided for the general population.

What should sick individuals do?If symptoms are present and a COVID-19 diagnosis is confirmed, patients should follow these steps to prevent the spread of the infection:

• Stay at home, preferably in a separate room not shared with others, and isolate themselves, with the exception of getting medical care.
• Avoid public areas and public transport.
• Limit contact with pets and animals.
• Avoid sharing personal items.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues and dispose of them properly.
• Sanitize hands regularly. 
• Disinfect surfaces such as phones, keyboards, toilets, and tables.

People should call ahead before visiting the hospital for an appointment. This way, the hospital can take necessary steps to prevent the spread of the infection.

Patients who have confirmed COVID-19 should wear face masks when going out. The WHO’s website has a resource explaining the proper use of a face mask. 

What tests are available?  

Many tests for the detection of COVID-19 have been made available under the FDA’s emergency use authorization, including rapid tests that are being developed to detect the presence of the virus within minutes.

The Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics provides an up-to-date list of different manual and automated tests that are available or currently in development.

Is there a treatment?

There are currently no vaccines available for human coronaviruses including COVID-19. This makes the prevention and containment of the virus very important.

Oxygen therapy is the major treatment intervention for patients with severe disease. Mechanical ventilation may be necessary in cases of respiratory failure.

Are there any new treatments in development?

Several clinical trials have been launched or are being planned to test a variety of potential treatments and vaccines for COVID-19. A complete list of all ongoing clinical trials pertaining to the virus is available here. by Fibromyalgia News Today
​

​Living with fibromyalgia means coping with a number of symptoms: widespread muscle pain (myalgia), extreme tenderness in many areas of the body, sleep disturbances, fatigue, headaches, and mood issues like depression and anxiety. But how does having fibromyalgia impact your risk of COVID-19 and ability to manage these symptoms while staying at home? Here’s what our experts want fibromyalgia patients to know about navigating the coronavirus pandemic.

Does Fibromyalgia Make You High-Risk for Coronavirus?

The answer depends on whether you have primary or secondary fibromyalgia, says Petros Efithimiou, MD, FACR, a rheumatologist who practices in New York City.

Primary fibromyalgia, which is the most common form, is a chronic pain syndrome in which the body and brain process pain and stimuli differently, explains Dr. Efithimiou. Importantly: “There is no immunosuppression.”

Since fibromyalgia doesn’t compromise your immune system, there is “no increased risk for acquiring COVID-19 nor increased risk for mortality from that disease,” says Frederick Wolfe, MD, a rheumatologist and fibromyalgia expert in Wichita, Kansas.

“People with a diagnosis of fibromyalgia should follow the suggestions of medical authorities for ordinary citizens,” he says, including proper hand-washing, practicing social distancing, and avoiding unnecessary travel and close contact with other people if you need to go to work or run an essential errand.

Secondary fibromyalgia, on the other hand, often occurs in patients with immune system disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and axial spondyloarthritis. In this case, your immune system can be suppressed and you would be considered high risk for COVID-19.

Knowing the difference is crucial.

“People might think that fibromyalgia is an autoimmune disease since they are often referred to and treated by rheumatologists, and some of their symptoms may mimic those of lupus or other rheumatology patients,” says Nilanjana Bose, MD, MBA, a rheumatologist at the Rheumatology Center of Houston in Pearland, Texas.

But fibromyalgia is not an autoimmune disease, which occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks your own cells and tissues.

Do Fibromyalgia Medications Suppress the Immune System?There is not necessarily a straightforward or universal way to treat fibromyalgia. Your medication options will depend on your most concerning symptoms as well as if you have any co-occurring conditions. Drugs used to treat primary fibromyalgia may include antidepressants, anti-seizure drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs):

• Tricyclic antidepressants: amitriptyline (Elavil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): duloxetine (Cymbalta) or milnacipran (Savella)
• Selective serotine-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): fluoxetine (Prozac) or paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
• Anti-seizure drugs: gabapentin (Neurontin), pregabalin (Lyrica)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Advil or naproxen

If you develop COVID-19 symptoms, it’s probably best to avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve); you’re better off taking acetaminophen (Tylenol). According to a well-publicized article in British Medical Journal, “prolonged illness or the complications of respiratory illness or the complications of respiratory infections may be more common when NSAIDs are used — both respiratory or septic [blood infection] complications and cardiovascular complications,” said Paul Little, MD, professor of primary care research at the University of Southhampton in the UK.

“The medication patients take for pain and fibromyalgia, such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) do not decrease the ability of the immune system,” says Dr. Efithimiou.

Additionally, antidepressants do not affect the immune system, says Dr. Bose, and “you should continue these medications to avoid flares.” Before stopping a medication, contact your physician over the phone or using a telehealth system to come up with a plan.

Distinguishing Fibromyalgia Symptoms from Coronavirus Symptoms

Many of the symptoms you may experience with fibromyalgia — including chest pain, body aches, fatigue, and malaise — can also be symptoms of COVID-19. But experts say you’ll be able to tell the difference.

“We tell our patients, if you feel any drastic changes — such as feeling out of breath or sharp pains in your chest — or feel different than your baseline, you need to tell us,” says Dr. Efithimiou. “We ask them to evaluate the intensity and character of symptoms. People are quite anxious, but they should stay away from the hospital.”

Anxiety and depression can cause physical symptoms, including body aches, fatigue, and chest pain. “The best way to tell the difference between potential COVID-19 symptoms and those of your chronic condition is to seek professional medical advice through an office visit or telehealth, which is available at many locations,” says Brett Smith, DO, a rheumatologist with Blount Memorial Physicians Group in Alcoa, Tennessee.

Managing Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Under Quarantine

Fibromyalgia symptoms like pain and stiffness, fatigue, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and depression may feel intensified right now. “It’s a two-way street,” says Dr. Efithimiou. “The more you can control anxiety, the better symptoms are going to be.”

We asked rheumatologists and psychologist John S. Fry, PhD, a former member of the National Fibromyalgia Association, what you can do to manage these symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Exercise

Many people find that exercise helps ease their fibromyalgia symptoms and quality of life. The coronavirus shouldn’t stop you from moving. Go for a walk, walk your dog, try online yoga, tai chi, or strength-training classes. Pace yourself and give yourself plenty of rest between sessions.

Practice relaxation techniques

It’s important for people with chronic pain and fatigue to learn how to relax their bodies by meditating, doing yoga, or practicing deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. While there are apps available to walk you through these strategies, telemental health can help you hone these and other pain management skills, says Dr. Fry, who is licensed to practice in California.

Lean on loved ones

Dr. Fry believes it should be called “spatial distancing” not “social distancing,” especially since it’s so important for people living with chronic illness to have social support from friends and loved ones right now. Make sure to carve out time to connect with others, whether that’s calling a friend, FaceTiming or Skyping, or arranging a Zoom meeting with family and friends, says Dr. Fry. And take advantage of those loved ones who are around you 24/7; don’t hesitate to ask for a gentle massage or help with household chores, he adds.

“Many fibro patients may have underlying depression and/or anxiety or a history of past trauma. It is important to broaden your safety net during the pandemic,” says Lenore Brancato, MD, clinical assistant professor in the division of rheumatology at NYU Langone Health in New York City. “With constant solemn news in the media and necessary isolation from family and friends, it can stoke anxiety for everyone, especially patients with fibro.”

Create a schedule

Whether you plan out a detailed schedule of your day or jot down a To-Do list every morning, creating a routine for yourself will help alleviate feelings of isolation and create some normalcy as you follow shelter-in-place orders. As you complete your tasks, “take a few seconds to savor the fact that you got it done,” Dr. Fry says.

Shift your self-talk

Self-talk can make a huge difference in how you manage your anxiety, which is likely causing you to catastrophize and think in black and white, explains Dr. Fry. Instead of saying to yourself something like: “Coronavirus is everywhere. I’m trying to protect myself. I’m scared. I’m going to get it — and if I do no one will be there for me,” say to yourself something like:  “I might get the coronavirus, but I might not if I’m careful.”

Remind yourself that you’re not alone. You likely have friends and family members and reaching out to them does not make you a burden. Think about the last time a friend called you for emotional support. After you hung up the phone, did you think it was a burden? Helping others is a behavior that’s been proven through research to make people happy, says Dr. Fry.

Find a healthy distraction

As you stay at home as much as possible, home in on hobbies and activities to help exacerbate feelings of anxiety and social isolation. Whether you paint, garden, color, scrapbook, or catchup on a Netflix series, it’s important to get into things that give you pleasure.

Prioritize sleep

When you live with fibromyalgia, getting quality sleep is a struggle. Unrelenting pain can disrupt sleep, which can lead to increased achiness and fatigue, creating a vicious cycle. Anxiety over the coronavirus can make it even harder to fall asleep or stay asleep all night. Now’s the time to make an extra effort to shut off those worries before shut-eye and change your perspective. “Before bed, write down three good things that happened, even if it’s been a horrible day,” says Dr. Fry. “Even if they’re little things: my dog licked my hand, I saw a pretty hummingbird, a friend called me today. This too shall pass.”

“Facilitating restorative sleep, which can be difficult during the best of times for fibro patients, requires attention,” says Dr. Brancato. “Sleep hygiene and  sleep rituals, such as legs up the wall or simple inversions and meditation practice may be helpful. Daily exercises (even seated biceps curls or leg lifts)can help reduce pain and relieve stress. Exercise can also foster improved sleep.” - Creaky Joints