Everyone has low-energy days, but MS-related fatigue (also called MS lassitude) is very different—and can be difficult to diagnose. Fatigue is the most common symptom of multiple sclerosis and affects as many as 75% to 95% of all people with MS. It’s unclear what really causes it, but there are effective ways to deal with fatigue. It’s important to see your doctor if you are experiencing unusual fatigue or if your other MS symptoms seem to be getting worse.1
Symptoms
- Lack of physical and/or mental energy
Types of fatigue1
- Chronic Persistent Fatigue: Lack of energy that limits activities for more than 6 weeks, more than 50% of the days, during some part of the day
- Acute Fatigue: Lack of energy that has recently appeared or become noticeably worse during the previous 6 weeks
Tips1
Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage this symptom, so it’s important to bring this issue up at your next appointment.
- If you smoke, stop. The strain on your lungs can make fatigue worse
- Eat well. A well-balanced, low-fat diet helps to energize your body. Consulting a nutritionist may help you create healthier eating habits
- Create a schedule around your energy levels. Exercise and do other physical activities at times when your energy level is high. Listen to your body and take a break when you first start to feel fatigued
- Develop healthy sleep habits. Keep the TV out of your bedroom and try going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Try to schedule a nap each day
- Set priorities. Some tasks are absolute priorities—but try to identify things that can be altered, shared with family members, or eliminated
- Stay cool. Since heat may worsen your multiple sclerosis symptoms, try keeping your body temperature low. Consider cool showers, air conditioning, swimming or pool therapy, lightweight clothes, and cooling equipment
- Exercise wisely. A proper exercise program can increase your energy level, but make sure working out doesn’t cause overheating. Talk to your doctor about what type of exercise program is best for you
- Strategize. Using energy-saving options like elevators, disabled parking, remote controls, and walking devices can save precious energy for use elsewhere
Downloadable resources
Fatigue & MS (PDF)
Helpful links
National MS Society: MS and fatigue
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/spotlight-fatigue.asp
National MS Society brochure: You can manage fatigue!
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/youcan_managefatigue.asp
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