How to Cope With Chronic Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is now recognized as an illness, but many other illnesses also cause symptoms of fatigue. Whatever the underlying cause--whether known or unknown--fatigue is a real issue many people battle with every day. It can disrupt daily activities and cause undue stress for the sufferer and friends and family members who don't always understand how fatigue manifests itself. There may not be a cure for chronic fatigue, but there are some steps you can take to manage your fatigue.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Stick to a regular schedule. If you suffer from chronic fatigue, you may often be tired or drained even after a full night's sleep. But if you don't get a good night's sleep on a regular basis, the symptoms of fatigue can become even more pronounced and problematic. It is essential to follow a sleep schedule, going to bed at approximately the same time (or within an hour) each evening and rising at approximately the same time each day.

2. Drink lots of water. Dehydration is a frequent cause of fatigue. Drinking lots of water is the key to keeping your body well hydrated and high performing.

3. Break up your day. Work on projects that require concentration in manageable chunks when you are at your peak performance. Schedule routine or mundane tasks that require little concentration when your energy starts to lag.

4. Nap as necessary. Naps can be a lifesaver if you suffer from chronic fatigue. Build extra time into your daily schedule so that you can nap before an evening out, if you're having a particularly tough day or if you know you will require extra energy for a particular activity.

5. Get outdoors for at least a little while each day. When you're feeling fatigued, fresh air is a great boost. Take a break and go outside. Sit a while or take a short walk. Experience the moment and breath deeply. When you return inside, you'll feel recharged.

6. Eat healthy. Be sure your diet includes plenty of protein for energy, whole grains and fiber to keep your body functioning regularly and fresh fruits and vegetables. Don't rely on lots of sugars or simple carbs that can make your body feel even more tired and sluggish.

7. Exercise. Regular exercise increases the production of endorphins in your brain, improving your mood and recharging your batteries. While you may not be able to run a marathon, even a short daily walk can help.

8. Lower the temperature on your thermostat. Being warm or feeling "too warm" tends to increase feelings of fatigue. By contrast, a slightly cooler temperature can increase alertness and raise your energy level. You don't have to make a drastic change. Turning down your thermostat by a mere 2 degrees can decrease your fatigue.

9. Drink caffeine in moderation as needed. A cup of coffee or other caffeinated beverage can help you function at a higher level of alertness when you need to. There will be times when, regardless of how fatigued you feel, you have to go somewhere or do something and you just need "something" to help you over that hump and get you going. A hot cup of joe can sometimes be just the ticket.

10. Talk to your doctor about medications that might reduce symptoms of fatigue. You are an individual with a unique genetic background, medical history and combination of symptoms and lifestyle choices, so what works for someone else may not work for you. But it's worth exploring your options and checking periodically with your physician since new treatments for many conditions are released every day.

11. Consult a mental health professional about depression. Fatigue is often a symptom of depression--a condition that is treatable with medication. While you may not think you're depressed, the person affected by depression is sometimes the last to recognize the condition in herself. A therapist, psychiatrist or other mental health professional, or your family doctor can help assess whether you may be experiencing depression and, if so, prescribe treatment that could have you feeling much better, more energized and less fatigued in just a few weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• This article is not intended to be medical advice. Consult with your physician regarding your particular condition and recommended treatment. This article was written by someone who copes with chronic fatigue on a daily basis and includes recommendations of what works for her; it was not authored by a medical professional.

Resources

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome

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[seagems]

on 9/24/2009 Well Done !!Thank you.