Introduction

This information is for people who have multiple sclerosis. It tells you about changing your lifestyle to help you feel less tired. It is based on the best and most up-to-date research.

Does it work?

We don't know. We didn't find any good studies that looked at whether making changes in your lifestyle can help you feel less tired from your multiple sclerosis (MS).

What is it?

There are lots of ways you could change your lifestyle that, in theory, could help you feel less tired.^[88]

• An occupational therapist may be able to suggest changes to your life that help you save energy.

• Your employer may be able to make helpful changes at work. For example, being able to work flexible hours might make it easier to manage your fatigue.

• Keeping a diary of when you feel tired may help you spot things that make your fatigue better or worse.

• Building rest into your routine may help. Some people prefer short periods of rest, or you may want to have a longer break or a nap when you get home from work. You might find meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques help you get the most out of the time when you're resting.

• Although exercise is tiring, it can help you stay fit, which may improve your fatigue. A physiotherapist may be able to help you find an amount and type of exercise that suits you. (To read more, see Exercise.)

How can it help?

There isn't any research looking at whether lifestyle changes help lessen fatigue for people with MS. But it makes sense to change your life in any way you find helpful. Your doctor and the other medical professionals treating you will be able to give you advice on managing fatigue.

How does it work?

In theory, changing your lifestyle could help you save your energy and help your body cope better with MS. So it could help you feel less tired.

Can it be harmful?

We don't know. There haven't been any studies to tell us.

How good is the research on changing your lifestyle?

There isn't any evidence. We didn't find any good studies that looked at how changing your lifestyle (for example, by taking naps or switching to a lighter kind of work) could help your fatigue if you have multiple sclerosis.

Citations