Fatigue is a complex and multi-faceted phenomenon, defined as a feeling of physical tiredness and lack of energy. The prevalence of fatigue in Sjögren’s is approximately 65-70%, and often reported as the most debilitating symptom. Next to pain and dryness, fatigue is one of the most common complaints that Sjögren's patients would like to have improved.
Here are some tips that can help you cope with your fatigue:
- Work with your doctor to find a specific cause and treatment for your fatigue. The possibilities may include systemic inflammation, poor sleep, fibromyalgia, depression, hypothyroidism, muscle inflammation, or side effects of medications.
- Know your limits and pace yourself. Plan to do no more than one activity on your bad days. Try to do more on your good days, but don’t overdo it!
- Listen to your body and plan to take a 20-minute time-out every few hours to help you get through your day. Educate your friends and family about what you are going through and how the fatigue in Sjögren’s can come and go.
- Develop a support system to help you with tasks. Ask friends and family members to be prepared to do one or two chores for you on your fatigue days. Give them specific instructions in advance and be reasonable with your expectations.
- Get at least eight hours of sleep every night. If you wake up at night, plan extra time for sleep.
- Get your body moving every day! This may help not only your fatigue but also your chronic pain, poor sleep and depression. Start with five minutes of aerobic exercise daily (e.g. walking, biking, running, elliptical, treadmill) and increase the duration by an additional two-to-three minutes each month up to a maximum of 25 minutes daily. If you have a heart or lung condition, consult your doctor first.
- If you are still employed, ask your employer for accommodations because you have a medical condition. Try to work from home, if possible, to gain more flexibility with your work routine.
- Identify the major stressors in your life and work with a mental health professional or your support system to minimize their impact.
*tips courtesy of www.sjogrens.com
