Fatigue is probably the most disabling symptom of this disease. It can be described as a lack of physical and/or mental energy that interferes with daily activities. It's caused primarily by the demyelination associated with MS. Other contributiing factors may be sleep problems, depression, bladder problems interfering with rest, and/or deconditioning.

Management of fatigue

Since medications can cause fatigue, a discussion of your current medications is necessary. Also, certain medical problems such as sleep apnea (stopping breathing while sleeping), or hypothyroidism may cause fatigue so further testing may be necessary. Several medications such as Modafanil (Provigil) and Amantadine (Symmetrel) may be useful in some patients with severe fatigue. Things you can do yourself to help fatigue include:

• Improve your sleeping habits: make sure you get enough rest - 6 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Take a nap during the day if you need to.
• Balance activity with rest. Learn to allow yourself time to rest when planning your day. Don’t push yourself until fatigue sets in.
• Plan ahead. Make a daily schedule with heavy and light tasks balanced throughout the day.
• Pace your activities. Take five to ten minute breaks during your activities before fatigue makes you take a break.
• Break your activities into smaller chunks.
• Set priorities. Let go of the guilt that may be linked with not finishing something due to fatigue.
• Stay cool. Stay inside in air conditioning when it's hot outside. Cooling collars or cooling suits are available for purchase. Staying cool can minimize fatigue.

See also

MS Sourcebook
NMSS fatigue pages