Fatigue: Suggestions

The suggestions that follow are based on the information presented in the Detailed Information document. They are meant to help you take what you learn and apply the information to your own needs. This information is not intended nor should it be interpreted as providing professional medical, legal and financial advice. You should consult a trained professional for more information. Please read the Additional Resources document for links to more resources.

Maintain a comfortable balance between activity and rest:

Keep a list of your activities and how much rest you get.
Keep track of situations that seem to make you feel more tired such as traveling across time zones, sitting down for too long, being in a room that is too warm or having to concentrate for a long period of time. Planning ahead may help you avoid these activities.
Find ways to break up your activities into shorter time periods, or allow yourself time to rest between activities.

Try to find balance with a healthy lifestyle:

Do not use tobacco products.
Work with your health care team to develop an exercise plan.
Maintain a healthy body weight.
Work with your health care team to develop a diet that includes the right amounts of fruits, vegetables, protein, carbohydrates and fat.

A well-balanced diet is important. A normal, healthy diet consists of protein, carbohydrates, some fat, fiber, vitamins and minerals. If you unintentionally gain or lose weight, ask your health care provider to refer you to a dietitian or nutritionist to evaluate your nutrition.

Pay attention to your sleep habits:

Keep a sleep diary to track your sleep habits.

Some items to write down in a sleep diary are:

The time you turn out the light to go to sleep
When you wake up and why you awakened (noise, pain, to take medication, etc.)
The time you get out of bed in the morning
Naps you take during the day

This information can help you and your health care team decide if sleep problems play a role in your fatigue.

Other suggestions to improve sleep quality include:

Sleep in a comfortable bed.
Avoid sleeping on the sofa or in a chair.
Sleep with the lights out in a quiet room.
Wear comfortable sleep garments.
Avoid heavy meals, food or drinks containing caffeine, and intense exercise prior to bedtime.

If fatigue and/or sleep problems begin when you start a new medication, ask your health care provider if it might be a side effect of the medication. If the answer is yes, ask about changing the medication or changing the times when you take the medication.

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