Fatigue is a common symptom for people living with Parkinson’s, and when we are adding more outings and get togethers across the Christmas and New Year period to our schedule, fatigue can feel overwhelming.  

While fatigue and sleepiness are often used interchangeably in conversation, they are different symptoms.  

Fatigue is persistent feeling of exhaustion irrespective of whether you have a good sleep or not, while sleepiness is the urge to fall asleep often due to poor or broken sleep or a side effect of dopamine agonist medication 

Feelings of fatigue can change from day to day, especially when your schedule is changing due to additional commitments. You may feel quite fit and able one day and then too tired to do much the following. 

It is essential to listen to your body when you are fatigued and take rests as required.  

Managing fatigue

There are several measures you can take to help combat fatigue. Depending on your situation, when you are experiencing fatigue, and how frequently you are experiencing it, your best treatment option may vary.  

There are also certain pre-emptive steps that you can take to help combat fatigue, some management strategies can be useful in the moment, while others have long-term benefits. 

Ways you may manage fatigue include: 

• Medical solutions: Talk to your healthcare team about adjusting your medications. 
• Energy management: Pace yourself with regular breaks and adjust your routine to conserve energy. 
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost energy levels and build exercise tolerance. 
• Sleep schedule: Maintain a regular sleep routine. 
• Short breaks: Take frequent, short breaks. Make a cup of tea, chat with a friend, or rest with your eyes closed. 
• Divide tasks: Do household jobs you can manage more easily and ask someone to help you with those you struggle with. 
• Stay engaged: Keep up with hobbies and interests to avoid boredom. 
• Healthy diet: Eat a balanced diet with regular, healthy snacks to maintain energy levels. 
• Understand limitations: Pace yourself and respect your limits. 

Everyone’s journey with Parkinson’s is unique, so it may take time to find the best strategies for managing fatigue.  

If you are experiencing consistent fatigue symptoms, you may need to visit your GP to discuss other treatment options or potential adjustments to your medications.  

For further support and information, you can contact Fight Parkinson’s on 1800 931 013 or email [email protected]