Muscle fatigue and low energy are common symptoms of myasthenia gravis (MG). Getting enough rest and finding ways to conserve your energy throughout the day are key to living better with the disease. Planning ahead, optimizing your time, finding energy-smart ways of approaching daily tasks and activities and factoring in rest will all contribute to improving your quality of life.
Why does myasthenia gravis cause fatigue?
As communication between nerves and muscles deteriorates, people living with MG experience weakening of the voluntary muscles, which only grows as the day goes on. Fatigue is a common symptom, and not one patients can push through: overexertion makes it worse. On top of this, many people with MG have sleep problems, such as insomnia, or take medications that impact sleep, such as steroids. All together, MG often means intense fatigue.
Read more about signs and symptoms of MG
Ways to conserve your energy with myasthenia gravis
There are some simple ways to make life easier and make your energy last longer when living with MG. Here are some tips to consider.
Adjust your routine
You will have more energy at the start of the day. Make the most of this time by running errands or completing activities that require more effort earlier in the day.
Plan ahead and optimize your energy
Daily tasks like grocery shopping can use up a lot of energy. Plan ahead to have groceries or other items delivered to your home. If you need to go out, go early to avoid the crowds and park as close as possible to the entrance. Delegate to supportive friends and family who want to help share the load. If you can, plan out time for rest or short naps during the day.
Don’t overexert yourself
Know your limits and don’t push your body to do more than it can do. You will feel drained, physically and emotionally, and it will take longer for you to recover. If you need to rest, then rest.
Assistive devices
There are a variety of electronic appliances, mobility aids or life hacks that allow you to conserve your energy. Here are a few to consider: an electric toothbrush, electric razor, mobility scooter, electric can opener or electric mixer.
Rethink your home and work environments
Make it easier to access items you use regularly. For example, optimize your kitchen workspace so you have all essential utensils within easy reach; if you can, create a space where you can sit down to prep ingredients before cooking. At work, have an ergonomic workspace that limits your need to get up and down unnecessarily. Install bars in the shower and bathroom to support you physically when you feel drained.
Regular rest
As you become familiar with how and when your energy levels deplete during the day, you can plan to rest before you become fatigued. Resting means lying down, sleeping or closing your eyes to allow time for your muscles to recuperate.
For more personalized advice, consult your occupational therapist and physical therapist.
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