Allodynia, skin sensitivity is one more pain trigger that contributes to the vast cluster of Fibromyalgia Syndrome. The first time I told my husband, “Ouch, my clothes are attacking me,” he got that confused look on his face.
To the observer, Fibromyalgia is a confusing disease because while the person experiences no visual signs of suffering, they exist in chronic pain. And, yes even our clothes can hurt us.
As more Fibromyalgia information comes into the light, I have been able to put labels on some of the mysterious pains I’ve experienced for over 40 years. Actually, it’s no surprise that my skin is hyper-sensitive since the skin is all tied-up with emotions.
So, let’s get acquainted with Allodynia.
Allodynia: Skin Sensitivity from Fibromyalgia – What Shouldn’t I Wear?
I tell you truth. Clothing that pinches, pulls or puts pressure on the various pressure points can cause Allodynia.
Pants that are too tight in the waist may initiate a prickling of the skin and also abdominal pain. Pantyhose are in the same category. Unless you’re going to a wedding or funeral, don’t wear them. However, if you substitute socks, try to find some with smooth toe seams. Toe seams can leave red blotches and are itchy.
Tags, which are sewn into the neck of blouses, etc. itch and a red rash may breakout. Make your first order of business to cut out the tags from new clothing.
Consider wearing 100% cotton granny-panties. If you’re a Fashion Queen and absolutely must wear lacy, skimpy under clothing, go ahead. But – you’ll be sorrrrrrreeeee!
Bras are the worst offender. Bras dig into shoulders and back, leaving nasty, painful red splotches. If possible, wear undershirts with Lycra Spandex and ditch your conventional bra. Otherwise, make sure your bra straps are wide. No underwire bras, ever, period, the end.
Allodynia: Skin Sensitivity from Fibromyalgia – What Should I Wear?
We can sum it up in one word – soft. I prefer all cotton or silk. Sweatpants are good in winter, provided the waist isn’t tight. Stay away from heavy fabrics such as denim and corduroy. Don’t even think about fuzzy cashmere sweaters, unless you are prepared to claw at your skin until it bleeds.
Allodynia: Skin Sensitivity from Fibromyalgia – Night Time
Scrimp and save anywhere but the bedroom. Purchase the highest thread-count cotton sheets that you can afford. Egyptian cotton is wonderful!
You’ll get a chuckle here. Last night my husband asked if I was sleeping on an ant bed! I kept pulling at my pillow, trying to remove every single wrinkle and wiggling in attempt to find one comfortable spot.
Seriously, people with Fibro already have sleep deprivation, which can interfere with daily activities of living. We owe it to ourselves to own a good mattress and comfortable bed clothing.
Allodynia: Skin Sensitivity from Fibromyalgia- the Tactile-ness of Things
Other than clothing assorted things can cause Allodynia. The wind blowing across our skin or a hug can cause a crawling sensation.
And, there are the days when it hurts to brush our hair.Allodynia like the other myriad symptoms of Fibromyalgia is a mystery disease, for which no magic pill exists.
resources: Definition of Allodynia – http://fibromyalgia.lifetips.com
