No energy

Of late, my energy levels have been so low, I literally feel as though I am fading away. Fatigue is a symptom not only of Parkinson's but Gaucher too, so I am endowed with a double dose. How lucky am I? It is difficult to describe the severity and extent of this tiredness, for the word 'fatigue', 'exhaustion' or 'depleted' don't seem strong enough to fully express what I am experiencing. Sometimes I can barely speak, and feel so bad, I can hardly function at all. Well meaning and caring people keep telling me to not do so much; rest, have a nap, but this scarcely helps and does not solve the problem. Long term fatigue takes its toll and cannot be resolved easily. Fatigue in Parkinson's can be caused or made worse by slow movement, muscle stiffness and when medications during the day start to wear off. These fluctuations effect mobility and often I find the best time for me is first thing in the morning, so I try to take advantage of this and get the things done that I need to, but doing too much - again leads to fatigue, so pacing myself is crucial. There is also muscle fatigue, painful cramping, tremors and shaking which all put stress on muscles making them work very hard. Who needs a membership to a gym when you have your own private work out from Parkinson's for free? It's like a vicious circle - there is no end.

My latest article for The Huffington Post has just gone up on-line if you'd like to take a look.

Wishing you all good health and an enjoyable restful weekend.