The time changing can make it difficult for people to adjust to a new schedule. However, for fibromyalgia patients ending daylight savings can make fibromyalgia worse. Setting the clock back or forward can make fibromyalgia worse because it can mess with an individual’s chronic fatigue and pain. Altering the clock by an hour can have a definite impact on your sleep. A lack of sleep not only makes you tired and moody, but it can also have terrible effects, such as pain, lack of focus, depression, and more.
It is already difficult for several people with fibromyalgia to get a good night’s rest. The time change can disrupt sleep patterns and schedules. So, does setting the clock back make fibromyalgia worse? It definitely can, especially if you already have trouble sleeping.
Negative Effects from Setting the Clock Back
As previously mentioned, there can be several negative effects for fibromyalgia patients by setting the clock back. Here we will examine a list of how the time change, and more specifically, daylight savings can make fibromyalgia worse for patients.
Depression
A study shows how daylight saving time can impact one’s mental health. Although “technically” we receive an extra hour when we turn our clocks back, it does not necessarily mean it is a good thing. The days become shorter and it gets dark earlier. In fact, according to CNN the darkness that comes earlier in the day can be difficult to handle and lead to depression. There are several negative effects of daylight saving time, yet it can be even harder for people who have fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia patients may already be dealing with depression, and the added challenge of time change can be difficult.
Fatigue
Another negative effect is fatigue. Although it may seem contradictory, the extra hour can actually make you tired and drowsy. You may feel tired because the time change disrupts your sleep schedule. Several people who participate in online discussions criticize the negative effects of the time change, including depression and fatigue. For people who have sleep insomnia or have chronic fatigue the time change can have a real negative impact. Whether it is an hour lost or gained, the time change can make our bodies and minds have a hard time adjusting, which can lead to fatigue.
Other Effects
In addition to fatigue, you may experience mood swings and a lack of focus. Sleep can also have an impact on the level of a patient’s pain. In fact, a reduced amount of sleep disturbances can lead to reduced symptoms of pain in fibromyalgia patients.
Tips for Dealing with the Time Change
Although it can be difficult to adjust to the time change, there are some ways to cope with the change. The following is a list of tips and suggestions:
Schedule
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule so that your body can have the opportunity to adjust. When it gets close to having to turn back the clock, you should prepare. Instead of going to sleep at the same time as you usually do, go to bed about fifteen minutes before your usual time about a week before the time changes. Every day you can slowly progress to twenty minutes, thirty minutes, and so on until the time change.
Focus on Yourself
Try to focus on yourself and your needs. It can often be difficult to set aside time for yourself and focus on your own priorities, especially with everything else that is going on in your life. Try to stay calm and keep your stress levels to a minimum. During the time change you should be aware that you may not be getting enough rest or attention. So, perhaps you shouldn’t take on too much whether it is at work or your social life.
Morning Routine
In order to adjust to the time change more effectively, you can make a planned morning routine. You should create your own individual morning routine. Try waking up at the same time everyday. You can set your lamp on a timer so you are waking up to the light. If you have time, you can exercise in the morning. Exercise can consist of something as simple as a short walk in the morning light.
Night Routine
Try to go to bed at the same time every night. Maintain a relaxing sleeping environment by keeping your room dark, quiet, and cool. Maybe read before bed instead of going on your cell phone or social media. Take a warm bath or light a candle.
In conclusion…
Sleep can be difficult for people living with fibromyalgia because of several different reasons. Fibromyalgia can disrupt your sleep patterns based on pain and other reasons. The time changing can make things worse, but there are ways to cope.
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