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Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Fatigue is very different from normal tiredness. It is associated with extreme exhaustion, even after minimal physical or mental exertion. However, fatigue doesn't have to stop you from living!

An invisible yet measurable symptom

Being tired and exhausted is not unusual. There are days or phases of life when you simply need more time to recover. However, if tiredness or exhaustion doesn't subside after a good night's sleep, it may be due to MSrelated fatigue. Many people with MS suffer from the effects of fatigue, especially when the outside temperature is high or in situations of acute mental or emotional stress. Neuropsychologists have developed questionnaires to confirm MS-related fatigue.

Typical signs are:

  • Tiredness that doesn't subside with rest and sleep
  • General feeling of weakness, loss of physical stamina, and difficulty concentrating
  • Lack of motivation to perform normal activities of daily life
  • Sleep disorders
  • Emotional reactions such as frustration or irritability
  • Social withdrawal, isolation

What you can do about fatigue
Adapt your daily routine and habits and you will be surprised by the results for your well-being.

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Fatigue is not laziness! Sometimes being (or making) aware of this fact works wonders for you (and others).

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Take it easy! Certain breathing or meditation techniques can help you fall asleep.

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Save your energy and rethink your priorities! Try to simplify your work on the job and at home. Get help with cleaning or shopping. Use a cane if you have difficulty walking.

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Try to move. Patients with mobility difficulties tend to reduce their physical activities. However, this increases muscle weakness. One way to break this vicious cycle is to stay active! For example, try walking for 30 minutes a day.

Your doctor is in the best position to advise you on a case-by-case basis.

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Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Society, https://www.multiplesklerose.ch/de/ (last accessed 08/07/2024).

Neurologen und Psychiater im Netz über Multiple Sklerose (MS) https://www.neurologen-und-psychiater-im-netz.org/neurologie/erkrankungen/multiple-sklerose-ms (in German, last accessed 08/07/2024).

Atlas of MS 3rd edition. MS International Federation, https://www.atlasofms.org/map/global/epidemiology/number-of-people-with-ms, (last accessed 08/07/2024).

AMSEL e. V. Deutscher Verband für MS-Betroffene www.amsel.de (in German, last accessed 08/07/2024).

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Hope-Through-Research/Multiple-Sclerosis-Hope-Through-Research#whatisMS (last accessed 08/07/2024).

MS Trust https://mstrust.org.uk/ (last accessed 08/07/2024).