While writing this article, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own experiences. We’re transitioning into winter now, and here in Bodrum, the weather is getting colder. As the temperature drops, so does my motivation to move around, and all I want is to retreat into my cozy cocoon. Fatigue is a thing!
Yes, I know—moving would be great, a short walk would do wonders, and eating healthy would be amazing. But let’s be honest: when your body feels like it’s running on zero energy, all of that sounds like wishful thinking.
Fatigue is a constant companion for most of us living with MS. But this isn’t your typical “take a nap, you’ll feel better” type of exhaustion. MS fatigue is a battle—a battle that demands every ounce of your energy.
And when you add seasonal changes or, if you’re a woman, your menstrual cycle into the mix, the struggle can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage it. Let’s dive in.
What is MS Fatigue?
If there’s one thing I feel most intensely as someone with MS, it’s this: unexplainable exhaustion. No one truly understands it unless they’ve been through it, but you feel it in every cell of your body.
MS fatigue is more than just being tired—it’s both a physical and mental burden. Even after you (supposedly) rest enough, that heavy cloud of fatigue lingers, following you everywhere.
This happens because MS disrupts how your nervous system communicates, forcing your body to work harder to do even the simplest things. To make matters worse, factors like the weather, poor sleep, or even your diet can amplify this feeling of exhaustion.
Seasonal Changes and MS
Autumn and spring are notorious for making MS symptoms more pronounced. The unpredictable weather and fluctuating temperatures during these transitional periods can leave your body struggling to keep up.
A lack of sunlight can lower your vitamin D levels, weakening your immune system. On top of that, humidity and temperature swings can make MS fatigue feel even heavier.
Tips for Coping with Seasonal Changes:
Maximize your exposure to natural light. Even a short walk in the morning can make a difference.
Stick to cool environments to avoid overheating.
Regularly check your vitamin D levels, and consider supplements if needed (always consult your doctor first).
Oh, and pro tip: some say holding your palms up toward the sun helps your body synthesize vitamin D. Personally, I prefer trusting my doctor’s advice on supplements!
Menstrual Cycle and MS: A Double Whammy
Being a woman with MS comes with its unique set of challenges. Hormonal changes during your menstrual cycle can intensify MS symptoms, particularly fatigue.
The week of your period is often when this fatigue is at its peak. You might also experience irritability, body aches, or difficulty concentrating. But there are ways to make this time more manageable:
Practical Tips for Periods and MS:
Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like ginger tea or omega-3-rich salmon. These can ease discomfort and keep your energy levels stable.
Try gentle yoga or meditation to calm your mind and relax your body.
Plan ahead and postpone energy-draining activities if possible.
Treat yourself! For me, it’s strawberries dipped in chocolate (lots of chocolate). And yes, I know they say to cut back on caffeine, but hey—coffee and chocolate are life!
Short on time? Pin this article to save it for later! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest.
General Tips for Fighting MS Fatigue
Dealing with this kind of exhaustion isn’t easy, but small, effective strategies can make a big difference:
Energy Management: Divide your day into sections, tackling high-energy tasks in the morning when you’re most alert. By afternoon, switch to lighter activities like tidying up or something that keeps your brain calm but body engaged. (This works wonders if, like me, you work from home.)
Light Exercise: Slow-paced walks, Pilates, or yoga can help boost your energy levels. (I recommend trying chair yoga—it’s fantastic for finding stretches that work best for you!)
Stress Management: Meditation or deep-breathing exercises are great for calming your nervous system. Whenever I feel tension creeping in, I drop my shoulders and imagine the crown of my head being lifted toward the sky. It’s a small trick that works wonders for me.
Healthy Eating: Avoid processed foods and excess sugar to keep your energy balanced (except during your period—then all bets are off!).
You can find more in MS Research Also, you can visit my ETSY store to find some items you can like and buy 🙂 ETSY LINK
Hey You! You’re Not Alone
MS fatigue isn’t an easy battle, but you don’t have to fight it alone. Talk to your doctor, stay connected with others who share similar experiences, and remember—resting is part of taking care of yourself.
On the tough days, give yourself permission to take it slow. And when you’re ready for more, step out of that cocoon and face the world with all the strength you have.
