Fatigue is a common side effect of Parkinson’s disease. Without effective strategies for dealing with fatigue, people living with the disease may frequently feel tired and sore, which can lead to daily discomfort, mental health issues, and trouble with disease management. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat fatigue. Try working with a family member or caregiver to implement the following strategies.

How to Reduce Fatigue From Parkinson’s Disease

1. Schedule a Daily Nap

If you find it difficult to get a full night’s sleep, try taking a nap during the day. For instance, after eating lunch, relax for 10 to 30 minutes. You’ll find you’re more energetic and ready to dive into the rest of your day.

Make sure you don’t nap longer than 30 minutes, take multiple naps throughout the day, or nap after 3:00 PM. This can make it difficult to fall asleep at night. You should also discuss overall sleep issues with your physician so you can explore solutions.

2. Discuss Medication Changes

Fatigue is a common side effect of medications used to manage Parkinson’s disease. Some can contribute to insomnia as well. Discuss alternatives with your physician. They may provide new options, including those to reduce tremors, which may be impacting your sleep quality. Consider antidepressants as well, since depression is sometimes associated with Parkinson’s.

3. Exercise

If you experience muscle fatigue, cramping, or stiffness, you may avoid exercising. However, exercise has a number of benefits for individuals with Parkinson’s. For instance, you may feel more energized after a brief workout. Research has shown that regular exercise can increase muscle function, cognitive function, reduce Parkinson’s-related pain, and improve cardiovascular and respiratory health.

Start small. A walk around the block with your caregiver, living room calisthenics, and yoga classes are all great ways to get moving.

If you’re searching for Parkinson’s support, the volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s can assist. They connect patients and their families with exercise classes and support groups in the Windsor, CT, area. They can also direct you to clinical trials for Parkinson’s and medical resources to manage symptoms. Become a member today. Follow them on Facebook for news and updates, and stay up to date on events.