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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How to deal with fatigue

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Rep of Ireland
January 25
 · 
Reactions
A myRAteam Member

I do too. One hour in the afternoon in bed. Total relax and reset, it has made an enormous difference.

January 28
A myRAteam Member

That is how I found out when I was diagnosed with RA. I was sleeping like 12 hours a day and I’m Type a and I couldn’t figure it out. Now since I’ve been on the Embrel shots, I haven’t had that issue with the. One doctor had me un rinyou and within two weeks I had my energy back but then my new RA doctor said that that’s got a black box warning on it and it took me off of it.

January 31
A myRAteam Member

Everyone deals with fatigue in a different way. The most common solution is regular movement. When you're immobile for long periods, your joints gell (research "RA gelling"), causing more pain, and thus increasing your exhaustion. So, although your first instinct may be to rest, try moving your body first!

For me, a light stretch to move each of my joints helps get the blood pumping and helps de-stiffen my muscles. I don't recommend caffeine, but B complex vitamins can give you a small boost in energy.

January 26
myRAteam

How can you manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Fatigue from RA can feel overwhelming, affecting your focus, mood, and daily activities. It's one of the most common symptoms, with studies showing people with RA experience fatigue levels four to eight times higher than those without the condition.

Here are practical Show Full Answer

How can you manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Fatigue from RA can feel overwhelming, affecting your focus, mood, and daily activities. It's one of the most common symptoms, with studies showing people with RA experience fatigue levels four to eight times higher than those without the condition.

Here are practical ways to help manage RA fatigue:

1. Stay Active with Gentle Exercise
Exercise can actually boost your energy levels. Try stretching, short walks, water exercises, yoga, or chair tai chi. These activities help improve RA symptoms while increasing energy.

2. Eat for Steady Energy
- Skip sugary cereals and high-fat meats at breakfast
- Pace smaller meals throughout the day to avoid energy crashes
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration
- Choose healthy snacks like unsalted nuts or dried apricots

3. Take Breaks and Prioritize Rest
Don't feel guilty about resting when you need to. Schedule your most important tasks for when you have the most energy, and build in time for adequate sleep. One day a week, focus entirely on yourself.

4. Seek Support
Talk to loved ones about your fatigue so they understand what you're going through. Consider counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy, which research shows can help reduce fatigue, improve sleep, and manage pain better.

5. Discuss Fatigue With Your Doctor
Most RA medications can help lower fatigue by reducing inflammation and pain. Your doctor can review your treatment plan, check for other conditions like anemia, and adjust medications if needed.

January 25
A myRAteam Member

Hi Nick, thank you for getting back to me. I will say it to the doctor next time I go. Good luck with your journey :)

February 1

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