How to Manage MS-Related Fatigue

Thanks Joan, fatigue is something which can be difficult to handle.  I've used (and continue to use on an as-needed basis only) one medication to help with fatigue.  It was a blessing for sure, but not a substitute for effective coping strategies.  (see future post on my experience with Provigil)

Physical therapy has allowed me to limit other medications known to cause fatigue which was a double bonus.  Allowing myself to rest, nap, and say "no" to things has helped tremendously.  The understanding of loved ones near me has probably helped the most in combating fatigue.  Understanding is a powerful "drug."

I agree that fatigue is very difficult to explain.  It's not something which is visible, but it's effects can be seen.  I am fortunate that the medication has been a useful tool in combating this symptoms; and thankfully, I don't need it often anymore.  Like I told Joan above, physical therapy has helped me in so many more ways than just "gait training." 

Ironically, though, now that fatigue is losing it's impressive lead on being my #1 complaint, I sometimes feel a slight twinge of guilt giving myself permission to take a nap.  But then I gently slap my own face and say, "silly girl, go take a nap!!"

Mandy, it is so nice to see someone else who has chosen to manage fatigue WITHOUT the meds.  I thought I was the only one. 

Provigil made me suicidal, and so I was dismissed as crazy; however, in the post-marketing surveys the company (cephalon) issued a new warning that Provigil does cause "psychological side effects."  So I was not the only one, nor was I crazy.  Unfortunately, many doctors have not seen that letter or gotten the word.

Joan

shortinthecord.blogspot.com

Hi Mary Anne!!!

When Provigil first started kicking in, I was amazed at how "normal" I felt.  There's another post coming in which I discuss Provigil specifically.  Cephalon messed up when they studied this in MSers as the trial data was inconclusive. 

Fortunately for me, my insurance company didn't have a problem with paying for this.  However, and this is a BIG however, my insurance company stops paying for meds after $1500 anyways.  So what difference does it make for them which meds they pay for?

Thank you for reminding me about the not FDA approved and insurance issue.  I'll have to go check to see if I mentioned that in the next post.  If not, I need to add it.

I ended up having a day yesterday where I needed to have taken Provigil but hadn't.  I think I fell asleep during a couple of piano lessons.  I do know that I zoned out enough that I didn't know what was just played or said by the student.  Yikes!!

Hi Pinkstate,

Thanks for adding your experience with fatigue.  That's interesting that your fatigue level was improved after starting Tysabri.  Perhaps it allowed your body to heal itself enough that the slowed down nerve signals put less of a strain on the entire system.  Very encouraging to hear.

For me fatique is the worst part of MS.  I can deal with the foot drop, but the fatique is the real bummer for me.  Provigil works good, but the only down side of it is the more you take the less it works.  I take 2 pills a day and in my opinion, I think it works best in conjuntion with the natural state of you.  Meaning, if you are normally a morning person, that is when you are going to have the most enegry and provig. helps.  But this is just my opinion.