The National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers an excellent online brochure titled, “Fatigue: What You Should Know – A Guide for People with Multiple Sclerosis”. The introduction explains MS-related fatigue, the but the best part is the “causes and Treatments” section. It offers treatment options for breathing and movement problems as well as a list of self-help energy boosters.
There’s a section, too, about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which became U.S. law in 1990. The brochure explains the concept of “reasonable accommodations” which the law requireis of businesses that have at least 15 employees.
Back to the list of treatment options and self-help boosters. What if the person for whom you care is already doing everything on the lists to counteract MS-related fatigue but still he or she is fatigued? That’s MS. One caution jumped out at me: Pay special attention to your MS after an episode of unusual fatigue. If your other MS symptoms seem to be getting worse, let your doctor know.
Caregiver Tip: Learn all you can about MS-related fatigue because it is the most common symptom of MS. 75-95% of MS patients have fatigue and more than half say it’s one of their worst problems and one of the major reasons for unemployment.