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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
August 17, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members opened up about how department stores and grocery stores can be overwhelming, sharing experiences of dizziness, memory lapses, balance... Read more

Members opened up about how department stores and grocery stores can be overwhelming, sharing experiences of dizziness, memory lapses, balance issues, and even getting lost trying to find exits due to sensory overload from bright lights, noise, temperature changes, and crowded spaces. Several members offered practical strategies that have helped them cope, including wearing sunglasses and earplugs to reduce stimulation, using shopping carts for balance and support, shopping early in the morning when stores are nearly empty, parking in the same numbered spot each time, and taking photos of store entrances to help navigate back out. A recurring theme was the relief of discovering they weren't alone in these struggles, with many expressing gratitude for the community's understanding and the validation that comes from knowing others share the same disorienting experiences.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Grocery shopping would put me into a 3day episode. By the time I got 3/4 the way done I was confused and forgetful. The last time I went shopping I got up at 6am and was at the store at 7am. The store was almost empty and I did all my shopping in half the time with no problems and no episode afterward. I think when the store is crowded it is too much visual and auditory stimulation for my brain. 6am it is from now on. I can't sleep anyway.

August 20, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Sunglasses and ear plugs. Unless you want to use that black grease under your eyes like football players. Pretty look.

August 17, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Except for gray and dreary days I must say I wear sunglasses almost all the time... I never realized that until I discovered I have fibromyalgia. My eyes are just sensitive to Bright Lights .....different color bulbs meaning soft pinks and yellows. I prefer natural light of all even though I still have to wear sunglasses on a bright day. The Silver Lining to this is that after all these years of wearing dark sunglasses I have a minimal amount of wrinkles around my eyes for my age (62) so I guess it's always good to look for the bright side even though you have your sunglasses on. God bless!

August 21, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hi, yes I have the same problem. I usually know where everything is when I go grocery shopping but I'll start down and isle and have no idea why I'm there. I find the lights in store just totally disorient me. I also use the cart when possible to balance myself. Hugs

August 18, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Yes, it certainly does! The higher the pain level, the more it bothers me. I just try to save trips to those places when I am at my lowest pain days. Wish I had a better tip.

September 18, 2016

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