Unfortunately MS and fatigue are two words that go very well together and for many MS patients, fatigue is what grinds them down on a daily basis. The important thing to learn is how to lessen the effects of MS fatigue and try to change your lifestyle in order to try to avoid bringing it on.
By Gary P Owen
It is important to work within your capabilities and over a period of time you should be able to assess just what you can and cannot do. Your body will tell you when it is had enough, and you need to realise and accept that you can now do less than before you had MS. Fatigue can be unpredictable so take note as to what times of the day you feel most tired and also be aware of the warning signs of fatigue such as a general tiredness all over, lack of energy, increased irritability, tired eyes and limbs.
It is a good idea to try and conserve your energy in ways that you may not have considered before, for example sitting where you previously may have stood. An example of this is, if you are doing the washing-up try to sit on a stool at the sink rather than stand. Pace yourself between activities and take frequent and short rests and when sitting try to use a chair with good back support. Try to plan your activities so that you limit unnecessary journeys. How often do we end up going upstairs twice because we have forgotten something so try to focus on your journey and make sure that the one trip is all you need. It has also been noted that particularly hot showers or baths can cause increased fatigue so pay attention to the temperature and the length of time spent.
A lack of exercise due to your MS fatigue can also lead to an increased feeling of tiredness and lack of energy. Try to stay active within your capabilities to increase your energy ensuring that you do not overdo it. Even if you feel that you can go on, you must learn to adapt to life at a slower pace, as by using up too much energy now may lead to a couple of days of heavy fatigue.
In summary with MS and fatigue you need to know your limitations and only carry out tasks that are essential whilst leaving those that can wait. If you have a day coming up which you know will be strenuous you need to prepare for it by getting as much rest as possible beforehand. Recognising and accepting that you now can do less than you used to is difficult, but it is better to be able to carry out some things comfortably than to be laid up and unable to do anything at all.
MS and fatigue played a major part in my life a few years ago but over time I have learned to manage it and I am now very aware of my capabilities. One of the other things which can help prevent fatigue is eating the correct diet. As I'm sure you're aware there appears to be a direct link between MS and diet, and I realised quickly that the one thing I had complete control over was my food. It was solely down to me to decide what I put in my mouth and what I didn't, so I set about changing my diet to give myself the best chance of fighting my MS. There are some well-publicised MS diets around but I generally found them boring and restrictive, and whilst trying to put together a diet that would also allow me to enjoy my food, I came across an eating plan specifically for MS sufferers which looked at every aspect of MS nutrition including food, supplements, and vitamins.
I have greatly benefited from a book which has examined the link between what we eat and multiple sclerosis. If you would like to know what foods are attacking your body, what supplements you must take and how to create the energy that you need, then this book is a must read. Reverse Multiple Sclerosis
As your natural inner balance is restored, you will begin to experience renewed energy, absence of pain and aches, and more and more of your symptoms associated to Multiple Sclerosis will disappear... These your first steps to freedom from Multiple Sclerosis medication!
You have everything to gain and nothing to lose by having a look. Reverse Multiple Sclerosis
I am not a doctor nor am I qualified in medicine in any way. These are things that have worked for me in controlling my MS. Before undertaking any diet or fitness regime you should always consult you physician first.
Thanks for reading
Gary P Owen.
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