Fatigue is present in approximately 80% of people with MS, making it one of the most common symptoms. It can also be one of the most impactful to quality of life, cognitive function, physical activity and daily living.
There are two main types of fatigue related to MS: lassitude and nerve fiber fatigue. Lassitude is the general feeling that you have no more gas left in the tank even though you have not done any activity. Nerve fiber fatigue occurs when a nerve or group of nerves lose their ability to conduct signals to muscles due to activity. For example, when the nerves activating the muscles in your legs become fatigued during walking, your foot begins to drag and it becomes more difficult to lift your leg.
One way to address fatigue is by using energy conservation strategies. The following video discusses various energy conservation strategies to help limit overuse and nerve fiber fatigue.
Visit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) for more information about fatigue in people with MS.
