Multiple sclerosis (MS) fatigue isn’t the same as tiredness. Tiredness affects everyone after certain activities or at the end of the day. Usually, you know why you’re tired, and a good night’s sleep solves the problem. Most people with MS also experience MS fatigue. Chronic MS fatigue can affect your mental health and emotional well-being, including your mood, ability to stand up for yourself, relationships, work, and interests.
MS fatigue is an overwhelming tiredness that’s not ordinary. It can be persistent and draining, and it’s not made better with sleep. It can be acute (lasting a month or less) or chronic (lasting from one to six months or longer). Chronic MS fatigue can affect your mental health and emotional well-being, including your mood, ability to stand up for yourself, relationships, work, and interests.
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 80% of people with MS have MS fatigue. It tends to worsen as the day goes on. It’s often worsened by heat and humidity, and comes on more easily and suddenly than normal fatigue. If you have fatigue, it doesn’t mean you have MS. Other conditions, such as depression, can cause fatigue.
The best way to fight MS fatigue is to treat its underlying cause. But the exact cause is often unknown, or there may be multiple causes. Fortunately, there are nonmedical steps you can take that may help you control fatigue. Check your level of energy. Think of your personal energy stores as a bank — deposits and withdrawals have to be made over the course of a day or week to balance energy gained and spent.
Plan ahead and organize your work. For example, store items in a way that reduces trips or reaching, assign tasks when needed, combine activities, and simplify details. Schedule rest. For example, balance periods of rest and work, and rest before you become fatigued. Frequent, short rests are helpful.
Pace yourself. A moderate pace is better than rushing through activities. Switch between sitting and standing. Practice proper body mechanics. When sitting, use a chair with good back support. Sit with your back straight and your shoulders back. Adjust the level of your work, and do it without bending over.
Limit work that requires reaching over your head. For example, use long-handled tools, store items lower, and assign tasks when possible. Limit work that makes your muscles tense. Identify situations that cause fatigue. For example, avoid extreme temperatures, stay away from smoke or harmful fumes, and don’t take long hot showers or baths.
Prioritize your activities. Decide which activities are important to you, and which ones could be delegated. Use your energy on important tasks. Fatigue is often made worse if you don’t eat enough or you eat unhealthy food. Maintaining good nutrition can help you feel better and have more energy.
Regular, moderate exercise can keep these feelings away, help you stay active, and give you more energy. Managing stress can play an important role in fighting fatigue. Here are tips to keep stress in check: Adjust your expectations. For example, if you have a list of 10 things you want to do today, cut it down to two and leave the rest for other days.
Help others understand and support you. Family and friends can be helpful if they can “put themselves in your shoes” and understand what fatigue means to you. Support groups can be a source of comfort as well. Other people with MS may better understand what you’re going through.
Try relaxation techniques. Audiotapes that teach deep breathing or visualization can help ease your stress. Do things that divert your attention away from fatigue. For example, knitting, reading, or listening to music don’t use up physical energy but require attention.
At michoesmedicalcentre, we understand the importance of managing MS fatigue and improving your overall quality of life. Our experienced healthcare professionals can help you develop a personalized plan to tackle this condition and achieve optimal health. Contact us today at +256 772 234 567 or visit our clinic in Kanyamuguti for expert care and support.
Don’t let MS fatigue hold you back any longer. Take control of your energy levels and live the life you deserve. Schedule an appointment with michoesmedicalcentre to start managing your MS fatigue today!