What do you do to manage the physical symptoms of your condition(s)?

2017-08-07T11:00:37-04:00

Share what works for you with others who may be going through the same thing.

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Aug 7 at 2017 11:11 AM

2017-08-07T11:11:40-04:00

With my PTSD and SMDD I take medications to control my panic, anxiety, depression, nightmares, etc. All in conjunction with classes and groups to help cope and learn how to better have a quality of life. Learning how your triggers work goes a long way to mitigate the symptoms. Avoid triggers by being aware of them, and if possible avoid any situation or places that may start one. Bike riding, hiking, swimming, Meditation, simple yoga, and hobbies to keep your body mind active and occupied. Journals may help with problems, as you can get it off your mind and onto the paper. As to chronic pain I am on the pain management program. Physically stretching, walking ,staying limber help in that regard. As does proper nutrition, and at least 6-8 hrs of sleep. Hopefully this will help the brothers and sisters out there. Good luck!

Response by SSgt Holden M. made Aug 7 at 2017 11:25 AM

2017-08-07T11:25:08-04:00

I tend to do deep breathing techniques. Perfect example was a week ago last wednesday I ended up getting a bad infection in my foot from a cut while playing in a creek with my boys. I went to the ER and my heart was racing and the ER doc asked if I had been diagnosed with anxiety in the past and told him I have and was doing some deep breathing techniques and it helped calm me down before they started the iv and all that stuff. Also I use some amazing therapeutic grade essential oils, and lavender helps me calm down as well.

Response by SSgt Shawn Springsteen made Aug 7 at 2017 2:32 PM

2017-08-07T14:32:32-04:00

I change my entire approach to diet and nutrition. That changed everything! Off all Rx meds (3 of them), down 50# of fat, up 20# muscle, down 60+ cholesterol...

How you fuel determines how effective you fight and for how long.

Fuel right-feel right / feel right-fight right

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 7 at 2017 3:58 PM

2017-08-07T15:58:12-04:00

For me, diet, exercise and a learned positive outlook. For my wife dealing with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, belief that something will be had in the near future that can correct "bad DNA" while managing pain as best as she can. Some months it is a lot of drugs, other months not so much.