Hello Tim
Thanks for reaching out on EnableMe, your question has come through to our StrokeLine team.
Fatigueis very common after a stroke and can frequently not be associated with activity or energy exertion.It can be difficult to say exactly how long these feelings of fatigue will last.
It is great to hear that you are seeing a new GP and hopefully they will be able to complete a full review of your medical history and current medical issues. It could be helpful to request a referral to a neurologist especially if your symptoms of fatigue and weakness are worsening. It would also be helpful to perhaps talk about another MRI to see whether there have been any changes since your last MRI, possibly in 2006. Your GP can organise this but if a neurologist refers you, you can claim a Medicare rebate for the MRI. It is always important to look at getting medical reviews for any changing symptoms. The new GP should be able to refer to you a neurologist who specialises in stroke that might be able to review your progress and your ongoing symptoms.
I know you already use the pacing, planning and prioritising strategies to help with your fatigue, but it might also be helpful to keep a rating scale for your fatigue to monitor whether there are any activities that exacerbate the fatigue.
Resting when you have been used to being active and independent and busy is a huge challenge. Sometimes it really comes down to being kind to yourself and not judging the choices you make when it is out of the ordinary for you. Things can be done differently.
There are lots of things that you can do to help manage fatigue. It is important to balance activity and rest levels and understand that it is normal for it to take time to return to previous energy levels post stroke. An Occupational Therapist can also help with energy conservation management techniques that may be helpful to combat fatigue, so do reach out to your GP to discuss a referral to an Occupational Therapist.
It is also important to remember that just because you start something, doesn’t mean that you need to keep going until you finish it. Think about what needs to be done today and what can wait until next week or next month. If you can, ask others for help with some tasks can also be helpful in managing fatigue.
Remember: you don’t have to do things the way you have always done them.
There is also the MIDAS 2 trial that might be helpful depending on where you live, so do consider whether that could be something you consider.
Given that you are also experiencing ongoing weakness, have you considered seeing a physiotherapist. They can help with building strength and regaining movement. You can talk to your your new GP about a referral to a DVA therapist using your Gold Card.
You can always reach out to us here on StrokeLine at strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au or give us a call if you ever feel like talking on Ph 1800 787 653.
Kind regards
Siobhan (StrokeLine)
