Arthritis Movement
Fatigue and Arthritis
The Definition of Fatigue
According to the Mayo Clinic, "Nearly everyone is overtired or overworked from time to time. Such instances of temporary fatigue usually have an identifiable cause and a likely remedy. Unrelenting exhaustion, on the other hand, lasts longer, is more profound and isn't relieved by rest. It's a nearly constant state of weariness that develops over time and reduces your energy, motivation and concentration. Fatigue at this level impacts your emotional and psychological well-being, too."
Reference: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/fatigue/basics/definition/sym-20050894.
What causes fatigue?
Pinpointing the source of fatigue can be difficult, because so many of the things that cause it are interconnected. For example;
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Lack of sleep can cause fatigue, but your lack of sleep may be caused by pain. So, is pain the problem, or is it the amount of sleep?
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A poor diet can cause fatigue, but perhaps part of the reason you aren’t eating well is that you’re too tired to make healthy meals.
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Not enough physical activity and exercise can cause low energy, but overworking yourself either physically or mentally can cause fatigue.
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References: Arthritis Rehabilitation and Education Program and Arthritis Research UK
SOURCES OF FATIGUE
The Effects of Fatigue
Fatigue can have a major impact on your life. It can force you to stop what you’re doing to rest, or make you change your plans. In some cases, ongoing fatigue can affect all aspects of your life, including employment, hobbies and relationships with your family and friends. Fatigue doesn’t only affect you — when it’s not in check you may be more irritable and short-tempered with loved ones. It can also discourage you from making plans to spend quality time with the people you care about, whether it's children, a spouse, other family members or friends.
Balance Activities
When people feel fatigued, they often spend their energy on work and chores and give up things that they enjoy. Determine what has to be done now, what can wait, and what someone can help with, then try to schedule in some time for yourself and loved ones.
Make Sleep a Priority
Keep a regular schedule, and ban laptops, cell phones and other devices from your bedroom.
Increase Physical Activity
Starting small, increase the amount of physical activity or exercise you do. This will improve your general well-being, strength and energy levels.
Make Good Food Choices
Eating too little can cause fatigue but eating the wrong foods can also be a problem. Eating a balanced diet helps keep your blood sugar in a normal range and prevents that sluggish feeling when your blood sugar drops.
Stay Hydrated
Drink water to help control body temperature, remove waste and keep joints lubricated.
Address Depression
You may think of depression, stress and anxiety as emotional concerns, but they can contribute to many physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and loss of appetite. If feelings of sadness, irritability or anxiety are becoming overwhelming, talk to your healthcare provider or a licensed therapist, who can help you look after your mental well-being.
Join a Support Group
Meet new people who share similar concerns and experiences, and who can share strategies.