Fatigue is a major syndrome of Multiple Sclerosis and is also known as Multiple Sclerosis Exhaustion or MS Exhaustion. Multiple sclerosis Exhaustion or MS Exhaustion can range from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the disease. It is also known as the invisible symptom of Multiple Sclerosis and can have a major impact on many aspects of one’s life. In fact, for some people it is the symptom that affects them the most. It is unpredictable and can come and go. It can also start much later in life as the disease progresses. MS Exhaustion or Multiple Sclerosis Exhaustion can set in out of the blue for some, while for others it can be a constant and tolerable syndrome that makes everything more of an effort.
Types of MS Exhaustion
MS Exhaustion or Multiple Sclerosis Exhaustion can be caused by many factors. There are two types of fatigue that affect a person having Multiple Sclerosis– Primary and Secondary. Primary fatigue is caused by the normal process of demyelination of the central nervous system. The loss or slowing down of messages from the brain can cause a build-up of muscle weakness resulting in fatigue. Secondary fatigue is not caused by Multiple Sclerosis directly, but it happens when the body tries to compensate for the symptoms caused by the disease. It could result from spasm, pain, lack of sleep or bladder problems. Medication for Multiple Sclerosis can also cause fatigue.
Treatment for Multiple Sclerosis Exhaustion
There are several ways of combating MS Exhaustion or Multiple Sclerosis Exhaustion. However, it is imperative to find out what causes the fatigue to address it effectively. It could be the result of another symptom that could be treated. There are fatigue management courses that help in dealing with this syndrome. For people afflicted with this, it is crucial to learn how to conserve energy and prioritise work. Exercise is a good way to build up strength, which in turn keeps fatigue away. Some Multiple Sclerosis patients are very sensitive to heat, which can in turn bring about fatigue. Such people should try to stay in a cooler room with an air conditioner, and stay out of sunlight in an effort to keep fatigue at bay. Medications are also available that combat this syndrome. Amantadine and Modafinil are two such drugs that doctors prescribe, depending on the severity of the fatigue.
