Let’s chat about juggling motherhood with multiple sclerosis (MS) – and yes, we’re talking about that infamous fatigue. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society highlights fatigue as one of the most prevalent symptoms of MS, often making it tough to stay on top of daily life at home and work. It’s one of the leading reasons people with MS leave their jobs. For many of us, this fatigue can be overwhelming, even if we don’t have many physical limitations.
You see, MS brings a unique kind of tiredness called “lassitude.” The symptoms include daily exhaustion, waking up tired even after a full night’s sleep, worsening fatigue as the day drags on, and an increased sensitivity to heat and humidity. This kind of fatigue isn’t just about feeling sleepy; it can seriously disrupt your daily responsibilities.
As a mom, especially to a child on the autism spectrum, this means I often find myself running on fumes. Four out of five weekdays, I’m down to just a few spoons (you know the spoon theory, right?) before even stepping out the door. By the time evening rolls around, I’m completely drained. And as any parent knows, hitting “empty” by 5 PM is not an option. There’s dinner to cook, a kitchen to clean, bath time to tackle, and so much more.
Tips for Navigating Daily Tasks with MS Fatigue
So how do you navigate all these tasks when you’re running low on energy? While there’s no perfect solution, here are four tips that help me cope:
- Take a Moment to Sit Down: Seriously, before diving into anything, give yourself a break. Dismiss the nagging guilt about the dishes waiting in the sink. Settle in with a little Paw Patrol for your little one and just relax for 10-15 minutes. That time on the couch might just give you a little extra strength.
- Embrace the “Divide and Conquer” Strategy: I know many moms, including myself, have Type A tendencies. Sure, your partner could help out with chores, but they may not do it your way. Who cares? If they fold the laundry differently or hang your leggings (who even does that?), let it slide. They’re capable!
- Borrow Spoons from Tomorrow: It’s not ideal, and you can easily find yourself caught in a cycle, but sometimes you have to do what you must. If today is a marathon, remind yourself that tomorrow you’ll take it easy. Leftovers for dinner, skipping the laundry, and letting the kid skip a bath can help you recharge.
- Admit Defeat: Some days, you simply can’t do it all – and that’s alright. On those days, I just need my pajamas, my bed, and maybe some Grey’s Anatomy on Netflix. I recently talked to my doctor about my fatigue, and after some laughs about naps not fitting into my mom schedule, he prescribed Amantadine and urged me to rest more.
While actual naps might be out of reach, I try to squeeze in short breaks between chores. Even though my spirited 4-year-old isn’t a fan, sometimes those little pauses are what get me through the night. You know what? Sometimes, a quick trip to Target takes fewer spoons than staying home and confronting bedtime chaos. It’s crucial to carve out time for yourself.
And then there are those “Good MS Days” when I wake up with a few extra spoons. I wish I could save that energy for a rainy day, but it doesn’t work like that. Use it or lose it! Those days are perfect for taking the kiddo to the park or enjoying a date night with your partner. After all, they are the ones who deal with you on low-energy days, so they deserve a little extra fun when you’ve got the spoons to spare.
Exploring Family Planning Options
If you’re exploring family planning options, check out Make a Mom, a fantastic at-home insemination company offering reusable kits. You can find a supportive community in their free sperm donor matching group on Facebook. And for more on how at-home insemination works, take a look at their detailed guide. Also, don’t forget to check out their BabyMaker Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit Combo to get started, or boost your chances of conception with their fertility supplements.
Conclusion
In summary, motherhood with MS is a balancing act filled with unique challenges, but with some strategies and support, it’s manageable. Remember to take breaks, let go of perfection, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it.
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