Fatigue
Fatigue is a common and often overwhelming symptom of Parkinson’s that can make daily activities feel more difficult, even after resting.
What is Fatigue?
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or lack of energy that doesn't go away with rest. It's more than just feeling sleepy—it can affect your ability to concentrate, move, or complete everyday tasks. Fatigue can be physical, mental, or both.
What Causes Fatigue?
It may be related to symptoms experienced with Parkinson's, such as tremors, bradykinesia (slow movement), or medication timing and dosage.
How It Affects Daily Life and Management
Fatigue may cause challenges with completing routine tasks such as getting dressed, cooking, or walking. It may also affect concentration, motivation and mood, leading to reduced independence and quality of life. Managing fatigue often requires balancing activities with rest or adjusting routines and medication.
Strategies for Managing Fatigue
Determining the cause of fatigue is the first step to managing it. Talk to your provider about the fatigue to determine if it is a symptom of the condition or if there is an underlying reason for the fatigue.
Suggestions to overcome exhaustion and
improve fatigue if it is a symptom of PD
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Maintain a routine and pace it by dividing daily activities.
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Use adaptive tools to make tasks less difficult. Talk to an occupational therapist about the most useful tools and to receive proper training.
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Take regular, short breaks, especially if still working.
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Regularly do physical activity and exercises that are enjoyable to create dopamine in the brain and keep muscles from getting weak (which leads to greater fatigue overtime).
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Maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Aim to include a variety of foods in your meals.
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Stay engaged with hobbies and interests to help keep your mind active as fatigue is both physical and mental.
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Monitor fatigue in a journal or diary to help plan and tackle more challenging daily tasks during times when less energy is less available.