Anxiety disorder specialists identify it as quite a common problem, and most people would experience it during their life. However, some people suffer from the condition most of the time. For them, the condition becomes debilitating, as they constantly remain worried. Anxiety is often caused by a perceived threat rather than any real issue.
Fibromyalgia is an even more complex health issue, and it remains poorly understood. People who are living with fibromyalgia experience constant pain or chronic pain, fatigue, and mood disorders. Now doctors recognize that fibromyalgia is a result of specific changes in the brain.
Drugs that can calm the nerves may help with anxiety. Similarly, those living with fibromyalgia may need multiple medications to manage different symptoms, including chronic pain and mood issues.
However, none of the treatments can cure the conditions. Medical drugs can only reduce the severity of signs and symptoms of anxiety and fibromyalgia. It means that those living with these conditions have to take medications continually. But, prolonged use of drugs also increases the risk of side effects.
Hence, doctors are always looking for non-pharmacological means to manage anxiety and fibromyalgia. Studies show that many health supplements may help with the condition. However, those living with fibromyalgia and anxiety may also benefit from other therapies that do not use any substance. One such therapy that may reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia and anxiety could be light therapy.
It is no secret that different colors have a different impact on mood. Some colors are exciting, and others are calming. Cool colors like blue and greens have a calming effect on the brain. Humans have evolved in a way to see these colors around.
However, the modern lifestyle has disrupted the traditional lifestyle. For example, people nowadays are less likely to spend time in bright sunlight, under the sky, or in the woods. These lifestyle changes are contributing to a higher risk of mood disorders and even fibromyalgia. Now the new study shows that even a simple measure of wearing green glasses may help reduce anxiety and fibromyalgia severity.
Early studies have shown the beneficial impact of green light on anxiety and fibromyalgia. For example, in 2021, researchers from the University of Arizona recruited 21 subjects. They exposed them for 1-2 hours daily for 10 weeks to green light. Their study found that this resulted in reduced anxiety and other fibromyalgia symptoms.
However, one can understand that spending a couple of hours in a green light may not be possible for most people due to lack of time. Hence, researchers tested the use of green-colored eyeglasses. Their study found that using such eyeglasses may help lower anxiety. They presented their findings at the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
In the study, they recruited 22 patients. Of them, 10 wore blue sunglasses, and 12 wore green eyeglasses. Anxiety disorder specialists found that those wearing green eyeglasses were less likely to experience anxiety and had milder fibromyalgia symptoms.
Interestingly, the study found that though pain scores among the groups were not much different, those who wore green glasses were less likely to use opioids. Most participants said that they experienced benefits after using green glasses.
These findings open the door for further studies. Light therapy is good for migraines, depression, and various other health conditions characterized by chronic pain. Light therapy may also have a role in managing diabetic neuropathy. Researchers think there is a need for more extensive clinical trials, as light therapy does not cause any side effects and is easy to implement.
The Bottom Line
Padda Institute of Pain Management offers best treatment for fibromyalgia and anxiety. Our specialists focus on your underlying issues to offer comprehensive treatment and relief.
By Gurpreet Singh Padda, MD, MBA, MHP
