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Fatigue is a common symptom for people with Multiple Sclerosis. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, “over 80% of people living with MS suffer from some form of fatigue.” It can impede an individual’s daily life and make it hard to function at work or at home. Although the causes of MS fatigue are unknown, there are various ways to manage this side effect of the condition.
Bias
It is common for people with MS to experience some misunderstanding from family, friends, or peers. People often assume that symptoms of MS, especially fatigue, are not a legitimate part of the condition. For those who do not understand fatigue, it is not for lack of trying or due to depression, but rather a physical symptom of the disease and it can be a serious one. There are various types of fatigue one might experience with MS including muscle spasms, bladder issues, extreme exhaustion, or “MS Fatigue” specifically.
MS Fatigue
Lassitude is a kind of fatigue specific to individuals with Multiple Sclerosis. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society states that it is different from other types of fatigue in that it
- Occurs most days
- Can start in the morning time
- Worsens as the day goes on
- Worsens in heat or humid climates
- Comes frequently and suddenly
- Is generally more severe than normal fatigue
- Is more likely to interfere with daily responsibilities
- Requires more recovery time
- Lasts longer
MS related fatigue has yet to be linked to a specific part of the condition. Whether it is mental or physical impairments, fatigue seems to be a consistent and persistent side effect of having MS in general.
Treatments for MS Fatigue
There are various types of rehabilitative therapies that can help to mitigate symptoms of MS fatigue. These include:
- Occupational therapy which is a form of therapy for those recuperating from physical or mental illness that encourages rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life.
- Physical therapy to improve short term endurance and strength.
- Sleep regulation or a sleep schedule because sleep helps you think more clearly, have quicker reflexes and focus better.
- Psychological interventions or therapy to combat the depressive symptoms that might result from chronic fatigue.
- Heat management, to help keep your body temperature down and your fatigue symptoms less severe.
Although there are no medications to specifically treat lassitude, there are medications whose side effects have been known to improve fatigue symptoms. If you notice an increase in fatigue-like symptoms, speak to a medical provider immediately to get the help you need to feel better.
