One of the more common symptoms of multiple sclerosis (ms) is fatigue, and after being diagnosed with ms, I always get asked by doctors, friends and family if I am fatigued. But, up until writing this blog post, I really didn’t know what fatigue was. I was always thinking, how do I know if I am just tired or if I really am fatigued. What really is the difference?
I did some research, and I figured I would share since I am not sure the difference between fatigue and tiredness is super clear. It, at least was not to me. I am not even sure anyone ever used the word fatigue in daily conversation with me before being diagnosed with ms, if I am being honest.
Fatigue is a feeling of constant and unrelenting tiredness or weakness. It can be physical, mental or a combination of both. Being tired is usually resolved by taking a nap, getting a good night’s sleep or resting for a sufficient amount of time. Fatigue cannot be resolved by doing those things. Instead, if you do those things, eating nutritiously, and exercising regularly and you still feel extremely tired, then you probably are suffering from fatigue.
Also, fatigue is associated with having a hard time performing every day or mundane activities, concentrating or being motivated to live. Some other symptoms of fatigue are headaches, dizziness, aching muscles, muscle weakness, slow reflexes, irritability, poor hand eye coordination, appetite loss, poor immune system function, blurry vision, short term memory loss or problems, and hallucinations.
In cases of fatigue caused by ms, fatigue may be hard to treat since it is caused by your autoimmune disorder which you cannot actually cure. However, there are certain things you can still do to try to limit the fatigue. Below is a list of some potential solutions:
- Stay hydrated (so be sure to drink enough water)
- Eat whole foods and eat healthier (also try not to overeat–easier said than done)
- Exercise regularly and participate in certain more relaxing workout classes, such as yoga and stretching
- Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night and keep as regular of a sleep schedule as possible
- Limit your alcohol intake and do not use recreational drugs
- Avoid caffeine
- Ensure your iron and vitamin d levels are normal
Hopefully, this helps you determine if you are just tired or if you are fatigued and need to address something.
Here’s to being more well preserved and hopefully well rested!
Always,
Taylor
