Fatigue question again... - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

curious11 · 02-08-2006, 08:01 AM

I am having intense fatigue problems late afternoon/ early evening, and I think it is due to my recent increase in Baclofen which my neuro recommended. The only problem is... it happens at a time when I am in the middle of class. I had two classes back to back on Monday, I felt fine for the first one, then 30 mins into the 2nd one all I could do was put my head down and close my eyes. I couldn't concentrate or focus and my eyelids just keep feeling heavier and heavier. The same thing happened yesterday toward the end of my 1st class. I had an hour break between classes so I rested in my car. My next class was almost 4 hours long so I knew I had to do something to snap out of it. I stood outside for a bit hoping the brisk air would wake me up, bu that didn't work too well. My teacher gave us a break at 6:30, so I went and got a lollipop and a cold water. I eventually snapped out of this "trace" that I felt I was in, and was able to fully concentrate on the lecture. I am torn because I assume this is the Baclofen, but I need the dosage I am at to get any benefit from it. I don't know what I should do, but I can't continue to feel that way eveyday. Any suggestions?

Thanks

StephanieAnne · 02-08-2006, 04:37 PM

Do you drink alot of water? I find that water gives me more energy than caffeine. Also they say that an apple is better for you in the am than coffee because of the energy that an apple gives you.

You would want to stay away from white foods, like white bread, potatoes, milk, cheese, stuff like that will make you sleepy. I know exactly how you are feeling, it might be that afternoon blood sugar drop that is causing it

But maybe it is the medicine too.

Do a google search for foods that give you energy

Steph

Peanutsmom247 · 02-08-2006, 05:58 PM

Having an apple in the morning is a good idea. I'll have to give that a try.

I also know how you feel. Sometimes I get so exhausted in class too, but I'm scared to put my head down or anything because I sit right under the professor's nose (in all five of my classes). Why do I torture myself so?

I've been taking a B-12 stress tab with zinc. My doctor told me it would give me more energy, and it really seems to help. On the days that I forget to take it (like today) I really notice a difference.

Also, just be sure that you're getting the right amount of sleep at night. I can't seem to function on less than six hours, but my body really prefers 7.5. Too much more than eight hours- and I'll be sleeping all day.

I often take naps. I just can't help it. When it's possible, do it. Though I reaize it probably never is

.

Good luck!

curious11 · 02-08-2006, 08:07 PM

I drink about 12 glasses of water a day (doing weight watchers!) and have for about a 1 1/2 months now. Water is all I drink, I don't do coffee or caffeine. As for foods... I stay away from white bread and pastas (too many WW points!) I do whole wheat and stick to meat and veggies. So as far as I know, my diet isn't adding to the problem. I am going to try bringing a snack with me to class during that lull and hopefully that will help. Thanks so much for the input! Greatly appreciated

curiousforever · 02-08-2006, 09:52 PM

I know what you mean. I've been finding myself asleep on the couch - and I'm the type that has to be in a bed with a box fan running...we bring the box fan anywhere and everywhere we go that I'll be sleeping. And that is with going to bed at 9 or 10 at night and getting up between 7 and 8 in the morning.

Doesn't matter if I'm only drinking water or if I'm drinking diet coke.

Think an apple would help? I have been trying to remember to take sublingual B 12...but I think I've forgotten in the past fewdays.