1. Practice Energy Conservation
Since over 85 percent of those living with multiple sclerosis experience debilitating mental and neuromuscular fatigue, they must plan ahead in order to avoid overexertion. While it is difficult to give up your independence and desire to participate in everyday tasks, delegating responsibility and accepting help are keys to avoiding complete exhaustion. When you're doing household chores and are about to hit a wall, remember that you'll have more energy later if someone else takes over now. Keep track of when you're most energetic. If you're a morning person, run an errand before lunch and take a scheduled nap after. Remember to prioritize your tasks--especially if you don't have a support network. When you run out of steam, leave the dirty dishes, hire out the window washing and organize closets on a day when you have energy to burn.
2. Participate in Regular Physical Activity
It may seem counterintuitive, but studies have repeatedly shown that MS patients receive fatigue relief and increased sense of well-being from regular exercise. Endorphins and adrenaline released during exertion offer participants a temporary energy boost, and fitness activities help increase endurance, strength and flexibility. Frequent exercise fights bone density loss--especially important for those with MS--and helps maintain a healthy weight and body image. Remember to exercise on a cool day or in an air-conditioned environment to avoid heat intolerance that comes with the disease. Drink plenty of fluids and consider investing in a cooling vest to avoid heat stress during exercise.
3. Take Advantage of Adaptive Living Devices
Adaptive living devices can simplify your life, allowing you to save energy and streamline tasks. Installed devices like tub and wall grab bars and non-slip mats help MS patients maintain balance while bathing and grooming. Consider buying tools like dusters and brooms with extended handles and kitchen tools with thick, rubber handles for easier grip. Corrective lenses or magnifying glasses help with MS-related vision issues, and braces, canes and walkers aid patients in walking and motoring around the home. Wheelchairs and electric scooters provide mobility for those who need further assistance, and transfer systems or lifts transport mobility tools for outside use. Consult an occupational therapist if you need help managing your daily activities. You'll find a helpful list of certified professionals at the Health Professionals Directory.
4. Fuel Your Body With Healthy Nutrition
While healthful eating is important for everyone, it is critical if you are living with a chronic illness. Consumption of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and a myriad of fruits and vegetables help fuel your body for its daily war against fatigue. Good nutrition helps maintain muscle stores, provide energy and fight infection. On the other hand, choosing foods that are high in sugar, salt and cholesterol or drinking frequent alcoholic beverages will take a toll on your already-embattled body. Those interested in trying more specific diet plans should investigate the Swank Diet, pioneered by Roy Swank, M.D., Ph.D. in the early 1970s. The diet limits red meat, dairy products and saturated fats, and is detailed in Swank's book, "The Multiple Sclerosis Diet Book", coauthored with Barbara Dugan.
5. Discuss Fatigue-Fighting Medications With Your Doctor
While there are many natural ways of combating the mental and physical fatigue of MS, you may need to seek pharmaco-intervention. Health professionals may recommend amantadine, an antiviral medication that has been successful in minimizing fatigue in some patients. Another drug, Provigil, was originally developed for narcoleptics. Studies have shown its fatigue-fighting benefits in MS patients, and it has few side effects. Visit your neurologist if you believe you might benefit from medications like these.
