Dealing With Fatigue Day by Day

As well as muscle pain, extreme tiredness is one of the major symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome. The tiredness associated with fibromyalgia syndrome is sometimes described as ‘flu-like’, and can make it harder to deal with the other fibromyalgia syndrome symptoms of pain, depression and ‘fibrofog’ (confusion, fogged thinking and forgetfulness).

There are a few simple things that can help people with fibromyalgia syndrome to cope with the tiredness from day to day.

Rest and Naps

A nap, or even just a rest, during the day can help with the tiredness associated with fibromyalgia syndrome. It doesn’t have to be long – even a few minutes with eyes closed and some gentle music on could make a difference.

Planning

Planning commitments and appointments can help people with fibromyalgia syndrome cope with tiredness – for example, making sure that a busy day is followed by a restful day, and not planning too much in the evenings if the day is likely to be tiring. Try to be realistic about what can be achieved on any one day or in any one trip.

As fibromyalgia syndrome symptoms, including fatigue, are made worse by stress, it’s a good idea not to plan potentially stressful commitments too close together. Planning work can also reduce stress – preparing carefully, making ‘to do’ lists, and not putting jobs off can make deadlines a lot less stressful.

Sleep

Improving sleep at night can help with tiredness during the day. Sleep problems are a common symptom of fibromyalgia syndrome. Keep the few hours before bedtime as relaxing as possible, perhaps sitting listening to soft music rather than rushing around, watching a thrilling film or reading an exciting book.

Make sure that the bedroom is at a good temperature, and that the bed is comfortable – replacing the mattress of adding a mattress pad could make a difference. A few drops of lavender oil on the pillow can also help with sleep.

Antidepressants, over the counter sleeping aids and prescription sleeping tablets can all help with sleep. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before starting over the counter medications – these can interfere with existing prescription drugs.

Exercise

Though people with fibromyalgia syndrome may feel that they are too tired to exercise, not getting enough exercise can actually make tiredness worse – exercise can also help people to cope with the symptoms of pain (see ‘Exercise and Fibromyalgia Syndrome’). Exercise also can help sleep, and improved sleep will help with the symptoms of tiredness. Don’t try to do too much all at once or try something too ambitious – start with a few minutes gentle walking each day, and gradually build up.

Make the Most of Technology

Make the most of technology – buy labour saving devices such as food processors and microwaves, or even a robotic vacuum cleaner that cleans the carpet all on its own. Even something as simple as sharpening knives or buying ready-chopped fresh or frozen vegetables can help. Shop online and get things delivered rather than using precious energy to struggle around the supermarket.