Fatigue is the most prevalent symptom in all recognized autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune fatigue is associated with mood impairments, reduced social activity, limited performance at work, and failure to perform everyday tasks.
Fatigue is different from being tired. It does not necessarily go away after you take a nap or get rest. It is a state where it feels drained and exhausted over long periods. People suffering from autoimmune fatigue describe it as bone-crushing and deliberating.
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What is Autoimmune Fatigue?
Autoimmune fatigue is not the same as laziness or being tired. Its effects can be cognitive, physical, or both, resulting in less-than-expected physical and mental performance. Autoimmune fatigue could be due to:
- Inflammation: Inflammation is the primary cause of autoimmune fatigue. Cytokines (small proteins that control immune response) such as IL-β and TNF- α can actively cause autoimmune fatigue by interacting with brain cells and promoting anxiety-like behaviors.
- Metabolic Disturbances: Metabolism is a process that produces energy using food. It also involves producing new molecules and recycling old ones. Autoimmune conditions prompt abnormalities in metabolism leading to excess production of cytokines that not only deplete energy but also promote inflammation.
- Stress: Immune cells in the brain region produce immune molecules (called the complement system) that interact with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. It leads to stress and fatigue.
Managing Autoimmune Fatigue
Fatigue affects the quality of life of 99% of autoimmune patients. Following strategies can help cope with fatigue for a better day-to-day life.
- Monitoring Fatigue: Keep an eye on your food and environmental factors that may promote inflammation or fatigue. Keeping a journal is a good idea to monitor your routine life and its link to fatigue.
- Sleep: Sleep cycle and duration play a crucial role. Maintaining a regular 7 – 8 hours sleep will keep the fatigue away.
- Stress: Scientific research shows that stress is a major contributor to autoimmune symptoms and fatigue. Avoid both physical and mental stress for overall well-being.
Do Not Overdo: Sometimes we want to compensate for the lost time when symptoms subside which leads to fatigue. It creates a vicious cycle and keeps the disease active. Always keep your pace and do not overdo it.
