Review of Common Management Strategies for Fatigue in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Fatigue is the most common symptom experienced by individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), regardless of their disability level or the severity of the disease. The Fatigue Severity Scale and the Fatigue Impact Scale are standardized tools designed to measure the impact of fatigue on an individual's life. In addition to the use of medications, other fatigue management strategies include education, modification of activities and environment, compensation, and participation in physical exercises. Because the patient is required to take an active role in the implementation of these fatigue management strategies, his or her sense of control in disease management is enhanced, resulting in empowerment of the individual. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), empowerment is a health-promotion strategy for the individual and for populations. Therefore, having options and control in fatigue management is empowering and promotes health for individuals with MS.