Understanding the Fatigue Associated with Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects an estimated 2-4% of the adult population. The condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and tenderness, as well as a range of other symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and mood disturbances. While fibromyalgia is not a life-threatening condition, it can be highly debilitating and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

In this article, we will focus on the issue of fatigue in fibromyalgia. Fatigue is a common symptom of many chronic conditions, but it is particularly prevalent and debilitating in fibromyalgia. Research has shown that approximately 90% of people with fibromyalgia experience fatigue, and that fatigue is often one of the most significant factors affecting a person’s ability to function and engage in daily activities.

Fatigue in fibromyalgia is different from normal fatigue. It is not the kind of tiredness that can be relieved by rest, and it is often described as an overwhelming and persistent feeling of exhaustion. People with fibromyalgia may wake up feeling tired even after a good night’s sleep, and may experience severe fatigue throughout the day, even when they are not engaged in any physical or mental activity. This fatigue can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as headaches, difficulty concentrating, and a general feeling of weakness.

The exact cause of fibromyalgia fatigue is still unknown, but it is believed to be related to a number of factors. One of these factors is the overactivity of the nervous system. People with fibromyalgia have been found to have abnormal levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can affect mood, sleep, and pain perception. The constant pain and stress associated with fibromyalgia can also contribute to fatigue. In addition, there may be other factors at play, such as hormonal imbalances and immune system dysfunction.

Managing fibromyalgia fatigue can be challenging, but there are several strategies that may be helpful. One of the most important strategies is to establish a regular sleep schedule and prioritize good sleep hygiene. This can include avoiding caffeine and electronics before bedtime, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and making sure that the sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to sleep.

Gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can also be beneficial for reducing fatigue and improving overall well-being. Exercise has been shown to increase energy levels, improve sleep quality, and reduce pain and stiffness in people with fibromyalgia. It is important, however, to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise to avoid exacerbating symptoms.

Another important strategy for managing fibromyalgia fatigue is to address any coexisting conditions that may be contributing to fatigue. For example, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and thyroid disorders are all conditions that can cause fatigue and can coexist with fibromyalgia. Treating these conditions can help to improve overall energy levels and reduce the impact of fibromyalgia fatigue.

In addition to these strategies, there are also a range of therapies that may be helpful for managing fibromyalgia fatigue. These include medications, such as antidepressants and pain medications, as well as complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and mindfulness meditation. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan that takes into account the individual’s unique needs and circumstances.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge the emotional impact that fibromyalgia fatigue can have on a person’s life. Chronic fatigue can be highly distressing and can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, and isolation. It is important for people with fibromyalgia to seek out emotional support and to develop coping strategies for managing the emotional impact of fatigue. This can include therapy, support groups, and engaging in activities that bring joy and a sense of purpose.

Living with fibromyalgia fatigue can be challenging, but it is important to remember that there is hope. By working with healthcare providers, developing a comprehensive management plan, and addressing the emotional impact of fatigue, people with fibromyalgia can take steps to improve their quality of life and regain a sense of control over their condition.

In addition to these strategies, there are also ongoing research efforts aimed at improving our understanding of fibromyalgia fatigue and developing more effective treatments. For example, some research suggests that certain medications, such as sodium oxybate and modafinil, may be effective in reducing fibromyalgia fatigue. Other research is exploring the role of nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors in managing fatigue and improving overall health outcomes in people with fibromyalgia.

One area of research that is generating significant interest is the potential role of inflammation in fibromyalgia fatigue. Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to a range of health problems, including chronic pain and fatigue. Some studies have suggested that people with fibromyalgia may have higher levels of inflammation than people without the condition, and that this inflammation may contribute to fatigue and other symptoms.

Researchers are exploring a range of strategies to reduce inflammation in people with fibromyalgia, including dietary changes, exercise, and the use of anti-inflammatory medications. For example, some studies have suggested that a diet low in processed foods and high in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, may help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health outcomes in people with fibromyalgia. Other studies have suggested that exercise, particularly moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, may help to reduce inflammation and improve fatigue and other symptoms in people with fibromyalgia.

While the role of inflammation in fibromyalgia fatigue is still being explored, these findings highlight the potential benefits of adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a nutritious diet. In addition to reducing inflammation, these lifestyle changes can also help to improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and boost overall energy levels.

It is important to note that fibromyalgia is a complex and multifaceted condition, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing fatigue or other symptoms. It is important for people with fibromyalgia to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized management plan that takes into account their unique needs and circumstances. This may involve a combination of strategies, including medication, lifestyle changes, and complementary and alternative therapies.

In conclusion, fibromyalgia fatigue is a challenging symptom that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. While the exact cause of fatigue is still unknown, it is believed to be related to a range of factors, including nervous system overactivity, stress, and inflammation. Managing fatigue can be challenging, but there are several strategies that may be helpful, including sleep hygiene, exercise, addressing coexisting conditions, and developing a personalized management plan with healthcare providers. Ongoing research efforts are aimed at improving our understanding of the underlying causes of fibromyalgia fatigue and developing more effective treatments to help those with fibromyalgia manage this debilitating symptom.

Flight Attendants Sue Former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri for Sexual Assault during Flight

Two flight attendants have filed a lawsuit against former Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri, alleging that they were physically assaulted by him during a flight in 2013. The lawsuit was filed in a US court and seeks compensatory and punitive damages.

The two flight attendants, referred to as Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 in the court documents, were reportedly working on a private jet that Hariri had chartered for a flight from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to Paris, France. According to the lawsuit, Hariri sexually and physically assaulted both of the flight attendants during the flight, which lasted several hours.

The lawsuit alleges that Hariri “repeatedly groped” Jane Doe 1 and “forcibly kissed” her, despite her protests. He also allegedly “grabbed and forcefully kissed” Jane Doe 2, and later entered the bathroom where she was working and “forcibly fondled and kissed” her.

The flight attendants further claim that they reported the alleged assault to the pilot and the co-pilot, but no action was taken. They also allege that Hariri’s security personnel prevented them from leaving the plane after it landed in Paris until they signed a document stating that the flight had been “uneventful”.

The lawsuit states that the flight attendants suffered “severe emotional distress” as a result of the alleged assault, and that they have “been forced to live with the trauma and shame” of what happened to them. They are seeking compensatory and punitive damages for their emotional distress, as well as their lost wages and benefits.

Hariri, who served as Prime Minister of Lebanon twice between 2009 and 2020, has denied the allegations. In a statement released by his office, he called the lawsuit “baseless” and “politically motivated”.

“This is a blatant attempt to smear my reputation and undermine my political standing,” Hariri said. “I categorically deny these allegations, and I will vigorously defend myself against them in court.”

The lawsuit comes amid a wave of sexual harassment and assault allegations against powerful men in the entertainment, media, and political industries, as part of the #MeToo movement. The movement has encouraged more women to come forward with their stories of harassment and assault, and has led to the downfall of several high-profile individuals.

The airline industry has not been immune to these allegations. In 2018, a survey conducted by the International Transport Workers’ Federation found that 68% of flight attendants had experienced some form of sexual harassment during their careers. The survey also found that only 7% of these incidents had been reported to the airline, due to fear of reprisal or a lack of confidence in the reporting system.

In response to the survey, several airlines, including Air France and British Airways, launched campaigns to encourage their employees to report incidents of harassment and assault. The International Civil Aviation Organization also issued new guidelines for airlines to address sexual harassment and assault in the workplace.

The lawsuit against Hariri highlights the need for continued efforts to combat sexual harassment and assault in the airline industry, and to ensure that all employees are protected from abuse and harassment. It also emphasizes the importance of holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their political or social standing.

The allegations made against Saad Hariri in the lawsuit filed by the flight attendants underscore the need for increased awareness and prevention of sexual harassment and assault in the workplace. This is particularly important in industries where power dynamics are at play, such as in politics or the airline industry.

Sexual harassment and assault can have long-lasting and devastating effects on victims, including emotional trauma, loss of income, and career setbacks. It is crucial for employers to have clear policies and procedures in place to address and prevent such behavior, and for victims to feel safe and supported when coming forward to report incidents.

The #MeToo movement has brought much-needed attention to these issues and has helped to create a safer and more respectful workplace culture. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that all employees are protected and that those who engage in such behavior are held accountable.

In addition to implementing policies and procedures to prevent and address sexual harassment and assault, it is important for organizations to provide training and education on these issues to all employees. This can help to create a more informed and supportive workplace culture, where everyone understands the impact of sexual harassment and assault and is empowered to prevent and address it.

The airline industry in particular has a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of its employees, as well as its passengers. This includes protecting employees from harassment and assault, as well as providing support and resources for those who have been affected.

While progress has been made in recent years to address sexual harassment and assault in the airline industry, there is still much work to be done. The lawsuit filed against Saad Hariri serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to prioritize the safety and well-being of employees and to hold those who engage in harassment and assault accountable for their actions.

The Benefits of Investing in Physical Platinum: Your Ultimate Guide

Most investors seeking diversification of their portfolios often turn to precious metals. Gold and silver are well-known options, but platinum is a metal that is often overlooked. This guide will help you explore the benefits of investing in physical platinum and give you an overview of how to invest in this precious metal.

What is Physical Platinum?

Physical platinum is platinum in coins or bars, also known as platinum bullion. These physical assets can be purchased from a dealer and are typically sold at a premium above the spot price of platinum. The weight and purity of the metal are usually marked on the bullion, making it easy for investors to verify the authenticity of their purchase.

The Benefits of Investing in Physical Platinum

Diversification

One of the most significant benefits of investing in physical platinum is diversification. Precious metals, including platinum, are often used to hedge against inflation and economic instability. When stocks, bonds, and other traditional investments perform poorly, precious metals can help stabilize your portfolio.

Limited Supply

Platinum is a rare metal, and its supply is limited. This makes it a valuable commodity, as demand often exceeds supply. It cannot be printed like fiat currency, so the collection of this metal is limited by its availability in the earth’s crust. This limited supply can help drive up the price of platinum over time.

Industrial Demand

Platinum is also used in various industrial applications, including catalytic converters, electrical contacts, and medical devices. As technology advances, the demand for platinum in these applications is likely to grow, which could drive up the price of platinum over time.

Historical Performance

Platinum has a history of strong performance. While its price can be volatile in the short term, over the long term, it has performed well. According to the World Platinum Investment Council, it has outperformed gold over the past 30 years, with an average annual return of 4.9%.

Privacy

Investing in physical platinum offers high privacy, as transactions are not typically reported to the government. This can be essential for investors who value their privacy and want to avoid government scrutiny.

Portfolio Protection

Physical platinum is a tangible asset not subject to the same risks as other investments, such as stocks or bonds. It can help protect your portfolio from losses in a market crash or economic downturn.

Global Acceptance

Physical platinum is a globally accepted asset, meaning it can be bought and sold in markets worldwide. This can give investors greater flexibility and access to more investment opportunities.

Tangible Asset

Investing in physical platinum provides investors with a tangible asset they can see and touch. This can be a comforting factor for some investors who prefer the security of owning a physical asset rather than an intangible one. Also, there are various options to invest in physical platinum, such as buying bars and coins.

Conclusion

Physical platinum presents a compelling investment opportunity for diversifying their portfolio and protecting against market volatility. The tangible nature of platinum, its global acceptance, and its ability to act as an inflation hedge all contribute to its potential as a valuable addition to any investment strategy. Furthermore, the privacy and portability of physical platinum make it an attractive option for investors who prioritize control over their assets. By considering the benefits of investing in this precious metal and exploring the various options available, investors may unlock new opportunities for long-term growth and financial security.

A new 6.4-magnitude earthquake strikes Turkey

Earthquake in Turkey

The southern Turkish province of Hatay has experienced a violent 6.4 magnitude earthquake, scaring residents who remain in the area that was ravaged by strong twin earthquakes two weeks ago.

Less powerful than the initial 7.8 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes that tore a path of destruction through southern Turkey and northern Syria on 6 February, the quake threatened further destruction in a region where many people had already fled their destroyed homes for safety in other towns and villages outside of the earthquake zone.

The European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported that it only penetrated two kilometers (1.2 miles) below the surface, possibly amplifying its damage below ground. Its epicenter was close to the southern Turkish city of Antakya, and it was felt in Lebanon, Syria, and Egypt.

The 6.4 magnitude epicentre, according to Turkey’s disaster management agency AFAD, was in the Defne district of Hatay, a region on the southernmost tip of the regional hub Antakya that stretches towards the town of Samanda. These areas had previously complained about the government’s lackluster response to their suffering following the earthquakes two weeks prior.

Ata Koşar in the Hatay town of Ekinci lost his brother, sister-in-law, and nephew when their nearby luxury apartment building collapsed during the first earthquake. “I was using our heater to try and stay warm, showing what to do in case another earthquake happened,” he recalled. “It was the first day we’d decided to stay in our house as it’s only one floor.”

“Another earthquake occurred while I was still lying on the ground. We heard what seemed to be additional buildings falling once again, and our home was suffering more damage,” he remarked somberly.

Rescue crews, according to witnesses, were making sure no one was hurt.

Antakya resident Muna al-Omar claimed to have been in a tent in a park when the earthquake struck. She sobbed as she clutched her seven-year-old kid in her arms and stated, “I felt the ground was going to break up beneath my feet.

“Will there be a second aftershock?” That was her.

Some who stayed in Hatay for two weeks after the first quakes indicated that they did so out of fear of completely losing their houses or a feeling that they had nowhere else to go despite there being no electricity or running water in the area.

Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority AFAD reported on Monday that the death toll from the quakes two weeks ago had increased to 41,156, and that it was likely to rise further given that 385,000 apartments were either completely destroyed or severely damaged, and that many people were still unaccounted for.

According to estimates, at least 47,000 people have perished in Turkey and Syria, and the death toll is certain to go further. The heaviest damage is concentrated along a fault line that extends from the province of Hatay deep into Turkey’s southeast.

The building of roughly 200,000 dwellings in 11 earthquake-stricken counties of Turkey will start next month, according to Recep Tayyip Erdoan, the president of Turkey.

When rescue efforts and aftershocks came to an end and attention shifted to the immediate need for shelter and restoration work, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had earlier said that Washington will continue to assist “for as long as it takes” while on a visit to Turkey.

A day before the second earthquake, Blinken visited the devastated Hatay area with his Turkish colleague Mevlüt avuşolu and committed an extra £83 million in relief to Turkey and Syria on top of the £71 million that President Joseph Biden had already promised.

In an attempt to express what he had seen, Blinken said, “It’s hard to put into words.” “Numerous damaged or completely destroyed buildings, neighborhoods, and streets.”

According to the UN organization for sexual and reproductive health (UNFPA), there are roughly 356,000 pregnant survivors of the earthquakes who urgently require access to health care.

These include 130,000 women in Syria and 226,000 women in Turkey, with roughly 38,800 of them due to give birth in the next month. Many of them were battling for food and water while living in camps or outside in the bitter cold.

The majority of casualties in Syria, a country already wrecked by more than ten years of civil conflict, have occurred in the northwest, according to the UN, where 4,525 people were murdered. Aid attempts are complicated since militants in the region are at conflict with soldiers loyal to President Bashar al-Assad.

The official death toll in Syria is 1,414; however, there are suspicions that the actual number was likely far higher before the second earthquake occurred.

Online Courses That Will Help You Master Architectural Rendering 

green tree in green grass field

Every artist must develop the skills he/ she has to create some fantastic pieces of art no matter what they are. Architects must work on gaining both new skills and technology. This can be done using 3D software or attending online 3D architectural rendering courses. 

Learning to model, texture, and render quickly cannot occur without mastering software such as 3ds Max, AutoCAD, and many more. An architectural rendering tutorial aims to make many tools, features, and rendering settings easy to use by a designer.

Therefore we will introduce you to a group of the most critical architectural rendering courses on the internet. These tutorials serve everyone, no matter what their skill level is. It fits every designer’s style.

If you are a beginner or a master, an interior or exterior designer, you should look at the courses mentioned below.

3ds Max 2019 Essential Training

This tutorial, made to be a general course on using 3ds Max 2019 for making architectural renderings, provides a full view of the whole design and essential skills that all designers need to create detailed 3D renders.

A designer can create many objects using several tools, creating hierarchies, lightning, and many more. This excellent course, taught by a rendering artist, will provide you with the information you need in approximately 11 hours.

Complete AutoCAD 2018 Course with 2D and 3D Projects

Are you a beginner in the world of architectural rendering? Yes? Well, this course is made for you! The system talks about basic operations features and workspaces of AutoCAD. It also provides step-by-step training on both 2D and 3D house projects.

It takes about 13 hours to watch this on-demand video.

Revit: Rendering

This architectural rendering course is for Revit users at the intermediate level.

You will learn some of the unspoken secrets about the industry. This quick tutorial takes about 5 hours to complete. It will give you the ability to design high-quality designs directly in Revit.  

You will learn more about the basic rendering settings and many other customization details included in Revit. You will get to know more about the lighting features.

Lectures on artistic render styles are available in the course too. This is one of the most outstanding architectural rendering courses online! 

Rhino and V-Ray: Architectural Rendering

This course will let you master your skills and move from a beginner to an intermediate level in less than 4 hours. Rhino and V-Ray will teach you everything about rendering photorealistic interior architectural scenes.

This course adds a profound sense to a design that looks real and includes many materials and other exterior elements such as plants, cars, and human beings. It also offers tips on how a designer can use the camera and composting techniques.

Rhino is your best choice!

3ds Max: Advanced Lighting

Although there are many courses for ruling the advanced rendering tools in 3ds Max, this course is still one of the best for mastering lighting. This is considered to be a course that lets a student gain some advanced 3D skills.

Architectural rendering is the ability to design convincing illusions. This is what you will exactly learn from this course. The course also mentions additional information about exterior and interior daylight, artificial lighting, light exclusion, and more.

Yes, it is not easy to use professional architectural renders. It will take a lot of time, a lot of tutorials to watch, and much practice. That is why you should attend some online courses. 

You can always choose the best ones by reading people’s online reviews.

You may start with a short and easy course to build skills, then move to another level. 

It is essential to watch the introductory lessons in case you are a beginner. Understanding the topic may be challenging, but things will improve with time. 

If you are an expert and looking for a high-level course with advanced skills, you can watch these videos to refresh your existing information. 

At an intermediary level, trying some rendering software will probably take time. Still, when you use toolkits that produce great 3D designs. These tools will let you master all rendering techniques and create a high-quality format.

Learning is not magic! It is normal not to gain valuable information from the first online tutorial you attend. Do not worry if your skills do not develop quickly because great things take time! Just be patient and never give up. Keep in mind the more courses you watch, the easier it will be to gain new skills!