Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
As a woman who has dealt with chronic illness and pain for half of her life, I attest to the fact that it changes you. We have good days and we have bad days. Then there are the ones we don’t like to talk about. It is a delicate balance of knowing our bodies and minds and focusing on what we can do and not what we can’t. I loved this article on butyoudontlooksick.com that explains exactly how some chronic illness and pain patients live life. Though there are many things that would make our lives better, let’s talk about 4 musts for chronic illness and pain patients.
Necessities for Chronic Illness and Pain Patients #1: Comfortable Bedding
Chronic illness patients tend to spend more time in bed than the average person, especially if they’re experiencing a flare of their condition. Investing in good bedding is essential for quality rest. Rest is essential for the healing of the body and mind.
If you have pressure points or sensitive muscles, a good mattress will give much-needed relief. Since comfort is a personal thing, you will need to physically try different ones. I sleep on a mattress that is very soft with foam that changes with my body positions.
Additionally, look for cotton and linen sheets and blankets, which can help keep you cool. Make sure your pillow gives you the appropriate support for your neck, especially if your illness affects your head and spine. Waking up with a stiff neck is the last thing you want on top of other symptoms.
Necessities for Chronic Illness and Pain Patients #2: Video Intercom
It’s on the bad days that a video intercom system is most helpful. Many of these intercom systems can be set up to not only help with communication within the home but with anyone who comes to your door. Who wants to waste precious energy to get out of bed for someone selling lawn care. No, not me. They are also connected to a security system, so knowing exactly what is going on outside your door and home is incredibly comforting.
Necessities for Chronic Illness and Pain Patients #3: Medication and Supplement Control System
Remembering to take medication and supplements is a must for chronic illness and pain patients. And, without a way to organize it all, you can even forget whether you took your meds at all. I’ve stood, staring at my pill bottles many times, confused about what I took…or didn’t.
I now have a simple pill container that I fill at the beginning of the week. What’s gone from it is what I’ve taken…simple as that. I also set an alarm on my phone to remind me when to take it. Additionally, I keep important supplements in a similar container. You can also pre count out all of your supps for the week and keep them in baggies or small containers. Don’t forget to take your meds and supplements with you if you’re out for the day.
Necessities for Chronic Illness and Pain Patients #4: Self-Care
Getting a massage or nice hair style might not cure chronic illness, but investing in self-care needs to be a priority. Chronic pain alone can make a woman feel horrible about her looks and even lower self-confidence. I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have pamper me time to look forward to.
Taking care of ourselves is one of those magical things that can and will make us feel better physically and mentally. This is true for women who don’t have a chronic illness. Get these special times on the calendar and do everything in your power to make them happen. Even if you can’t get out to any appointments, take care of yourself at home.
Chronic illness is no picnic and, unless you’ve experienced it, it’s not likely you can understand what it’s like. Though many brave warriors of pain and suffering gladly share their stories, most don’t share the worst. I am one of those women. I want people to know that they are not alone and that there is hope for change and recovery. It’s also important to share triumphs, whether they come from the help of a doctor or from home remedies. I tell anyone who will listen that information is their friend. Dig for the truth. Search for answers on reputable sites like huffingtonpost.ca. Do what you have to do to live happily and fulfilled!
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
