Sleep problems can be a vicious cycle for those with fibromyalgia. Stiffness and pain can make regular, restful sleep difficult to achieve. And, in turn, sleep deprivation can lead to increased symptoms. Practice good sleep hygiene by going to bed at the same time every day and avoid caffeine and alcohol after noon, and try to limit daytime napping to one hour.

Exercising, in moderate doses, can be an important part of fibromyalgia treatment. Exercise causes your brain to release chemicals called endorphins, which help the body deal with stress, anxiety, and pain. Exercise can also help improve sleep, which is important for those with fibromyalgia. Ease into any exercise routine, don't push yourself too hard, and stick with it.

Eating a healthy, nutritional diet, rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat, sodium, and sugar, is important for people with fibromyalgia. Try not to load up on carbohydrates, as they can lead to rebound pain the next day. In addition, some people might benefit from avoiding the sweetener aspartame (NutraSweet) and/or the the preservative MSG as these may serve to stimulate pain fibers in some individuals.

Just having fibromyalgia is probably enough to stress anyone out. But chronic stress, like lack of sleep, can make the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia worse. Meditation, exercise, a chat with a friend, or even a little "retail therapy" can all be ways to take your mind off of the negative feelings and frustrations you may be experiencing and help minimize your stress levels