Make Shopping with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Less Painful!

Suffer from fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue? Light and noise sensitivity, panic attacks, anxiety, pain, and fatigue can make shopping difficult. After thirty plus years of fighting with fibromyalgia, I'm going to share how to go shopping!

Shopping lists are your friends.

Make a list of what you want and who it is for. Keep track of purchases as you go. Make a list of wrapping needs, such as paper and bows. Need cards or thank yous on that list? Do you need supplies to prepare food?

How to choose the right day to go shopping.

Do not plan a specific day to shop, as it leads to anxiety and stress. Preferably you will take a close friend, or family member that understands your circumstances. Unexpectedly call a friend when you feel well enough to shop. Avoid wind, rain or any weather condition that adds to your pain. Do not expect to do anything the day after shopping, just rest.

Is shopping from home the best idea?

Yes, my UPS man is my best friend over the holidays. Using the Internet keeps me away from flu bugs and colds and gives me more gift choices. On line shopping is physically and mentally less demanding.

Whatever gets you through, take it with you!

No matter where I go, I have a small insulated tote that holds several ice packs. You will never find me without something to drink, and I always have BioFreeze or ActiVon in my purse! I also have Valium for anxiety attacks. Pack whatever gets you through pain or sensitivities that you suffer from.

Coping with light, noise and odors while shopping.

Light sensitivity? Wear sunglasses in the store. No one cares, and I've never been questioned about it. If noise is your Achilles heel, wear ear plugs or ear phones. The candle, soap and detergent isles, are horrible if you are overly sensitive to odors. Ask the sales clerk to get your product from these isles.

Dress comfortably to go shopping.

Tight clothing can set off trigger points, and you will be painfully uncomfortable. I wear either sweat suits or a baggy dress/shift. Comfortable shoes are a must. So do not be fashionable, be comfortable while shopping.

Do not procrastinate and other tips.

Putting shopping off, will end up with you in a tizzy. Work around your fibromyalgia. Be faithful about taking your supplements and meds before shopping. Stay on your sleeping schedule and realize that you will not get everything done. You will be tempted to shuck it all, but you will have fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue with or without shopping.

Have fun and know that you are not alone!