by Anne H. Lootens and Rachel Rossiter

"INSIGHT", January 2001

Just because you can't see the wind doesn't mean you doubt it exists. Because you can both see and feel the effects of the wind, you know wind is a reality. The fatigue often associated with scleroderma and lupus can easily be compared with the properties of the wind. Although fatigue itself is invisible, it exists, and its effects are a reality.
Some of the major reasons you may tire more easily include:
*Scleroderma or lupus may cause a decrease in the range of motion in your joints or a reduction in flexibility. More energy is needed to move such affected joints.
*Joints and muscles weakened by scleroderma and lupus symptoms, or used less due to pain, swelling or stiffness, cause extra work for your other normal joints and muscles. This increased workload produces rapid fatigue, even in your "good" joints and muscles.
Some basic helpful hints for dealing with fatigue are:
*Plan your activities according to your available energy, instead of trying to fight your fatigue. Try alternating tasks with rest periods, or break one job into smaller jobs. Making a concerted effort to conserve energy, (especially in chores around the house) will also help you control your energy level.
*Be attentive to your body's signals, rather than ignoring those helpful hints. Learn to recognize your body's daily cycle and plan around the times you ususally feel tired. Take advantage of good days, but don't overdo. Overactivity will only make a bad day worse.
*Accepting your limitations is probably the best way to deal with the frustration your restricted activities may cause. Realizing what you can and can't do and finding pleasant alternate activities will minimize your frustration and depression.
Exercise. It is not uncommon for a scleroderma or lupus patient to feel an overwhelming sense of fatigue, particularly after a flare-up of the disease and an extended period of inactivity. You may find exercises helpful at this time. It should be done with the approval of your physician. Sometimes physicians recommend a cardiac rehabilitation exercise program (or perhaps a pulmonary rehab program) to their scleroderma and lupus patients, as it increases endurance without being overly exertive.
The fatigue you'r feeling is real. Just because you can't see it, don't doubt that your fatigue exists; rather do your best to deal with its effects. Being aware of your activity level, keeping your doctor informed about how you are feeling so he can tailor your treatment, and leaning on those close to you for help when needed can help you overcome the hidden aspect of chronic illness -- FATIGUE.

Last Month's Newsletter
Here we might list the contents of this past issue of the newsletter, or highlight a significant article or interview it contains. We may make a portion of it downloadable below as well.

Here we might list the contents of this past issue of the newsletter, or highlight a significant article or interview it contains.