Donna has written about many subjects in her book, one that she gets asked about on a regular basis is 'fatigue' and she hopes this insight is helpful for those who suffer it.
FATIGUEFatigue is extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion or illness. It is an overwhelming urge to sleep that doesn’t necessarily feel quenched by it. Oftentimes fatigue is accompanied by depression, lack of concentration or the ability to focus.
Having epilepsy means you are more likely to be affected by fatigue than others, due to several factors. Seizures and the effect of epilepsy medications can disrupt sleep which makes fatigue more likely. Some epilepsy medications can also cause depression.
Fatigue doesn't only affect epileptics. Think of the brain as an epicentre for all we do, every breath we take, all movement and every thought. When it is damaged in any way-received trauma, perhaps through stroke or brain tumour-it takes time to heal. Exhaustion comes easy and it takes longer for the tiredness to disappear. We need to be kind to ourselves and allow that rest.
There are ways to manage fatigue and general tiredness, which begins by speaking with your doctor who can suggest ways to help. In the meantime, eating regular healthy meals with healthy snacks between can boost your energy levels. Staying active also helps over time. There has been extensive research into the effectiveness of talking therapies in relation to fatigue, which has been deemed helpful in its resolution.
Drinking excessive caffeinated drinks (tea, coffee, cola and energy drinks) often make it more difficult to have a peaceful night’s sleep. The same applies to alcoholic drinks. This would make you feel more tired in the morning. Many epilepsy medication labels advise staying away from alcohol altogether.
It is essential to have a good sleep routine. By following a relaxing bedtime routine where you go to bed and get up at the same time each day, should help train your brain when it should be sleeping and waking up.
