Fatigue
What is it and why does it happen?
Fatigue is a common experience for many people with CP, affecting up to 40% of individuals. It means you might feel exhausted, tired, weak, or low in energy.
Fatigue can also make it hard to think, concentrate, learn, move, or act, which can impact your daily life. Even resting may not completely relieve your fatigue.
You might experience:
Physical fatigue
Feeling tired in your muscles.
Mental (cognitive) fatigue
Difficulty thinking clearly or focusing.
Fatigue can last for a short time—like after physical activity—or it can be constant and ongoing without a clear reason. It might be worse for those with more significant mobility challenges or CP that affects both sides of the body, and it can become more common as you age.
Causes of Fatigue
Many things can make people with CP feel tired.
Here are some common causes:
Too much physical activity
Using lots of energy during the day can leave you feeling exhausted.
Too little physical activity
Not moving enough can lead to muscle weakness and loss of fitness, which can make you feel more tired.
Pain
Pain uses up your energy and can make you feel more tired.
Poor posture
Sitting or standing in ways that don’t support your body well can cause fatigue because your muscles have to work harder.
Sleep problems
Trouble sleeping or not getting enough rest makes it hard for your body to recharge.
Poor diet
Not getting enough healthy food can leave you feeling drained.
Mental health issues
Stress, anxiety, or depression can also make you feel tired.
Some medications
Certain medicines can make you feel sleepy or sluggish.
Environmental factors
Things like extreme temperatures or too much noise can make fatigue worse.
Multiple factors
Sometimes, a combination of these things can come together to make fatigue even more challenging.
Managing Your Fatigue
Strategies to Help Manage Fatigue:
Physical Activity
Engage in activities you enjoy to improve your fitness, strength, and endurance. Consider options like community gym programs, water aerobics, or dancing.
Try yoga or stretching exercises to reduce stress and muscle tension.
Energy Conservation Techniques
Use tools and equipment to make tasks easier and require less effort.
Pace your activities by mixing work with planned breaks.
If you’re in school, ask for more time to move between classes or take breaks.
Use assistive technology to help you save energy for things you enjoy or need to do.
Diet and Hydration
Eat balanced, healthy meals. If you have specific dietary needs, consider consulting a dietitian.
Stay hydrated, especially in warm weather or during exercise.
By paying attention to your body and making small changes, you can help manage fatigue and improve your overall quality of life.