myRAteam

What can you do for severe fatigue with RA?

Severe fatigue with RA can feel overwhelming, but there are several approaches that may help you regain some energy.

Exercise and Movement

Find gentle exercises that work for you, such as
- Short walks
- Chair exercises (chair tai chi or chair yoga)
- Water exercises
- Show Full Answer

What can you do for severe fatigue with RA?

Severe fatigue with RA can feel overwhelming, but there are several approaches that may help you regain some energy.

Exercise and Movement

Find gentle exercises that work for you, such as:
- Short walks
- Chair exercises (chair tai chi or chair yoga)
- Water exercises
- Stretching
- Yoga

A myRAteam member suggested looking for chair exercises on YouTube, which can be easier on your joints.

Manage Your Energy Throughout the Day

- Schedule activities when you have the most energy (often mornings for many people)
- Take breaks when needed without feeling guilty
- Pace yourself with smaller tasks throughout the day
- Set aside one day a week just for rest and self-care

Focus on Nutrition

- Eat smaller meals throughout the day to avoid energy crashes
- Skip sugary cereals and high-fat meats at breakfast
- Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration-related fatigue
- Avoid foods that upset your stomach or cause heartburn

A myRAteam member shared that healthy snacks like unsalted nuts, dried apricots, or dark chocolate can provide energy boosts.

Seek Support

Consider reaching out for mental health support, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which research shows may help reduce fatigue, improve sleep, and manage pain better.

Let family and friends know about your fatigue so they can better understand and support you.

Talk to Your Doctor

This is crucial. Almost all RA medications can help lower fatigue by reducing inflammation and disease activity. Your doctor can:
- Review and adjust your medications if needed
- Test for other conditions like anemia that might contribute to fatigue
- Discuss whether supplements, vitamins, sleep aids, or antidepressants might help

Be specific about how fatigue affects your daily life when talking to your healthcare team.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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