Tips for Managing Fatigue in LEMS

by Emily Malcolm, PhD | August 2, 2019

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness. Many patients also experience fatigue that can make work, school, and daily tasks more challenging. Here are some tips to help manage fatigue.

Get seven to nine hours of sleep a night

It can be hard to get enough sleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults get seven to nine hours of sleep a night, though some individuals may need more or less to feel rested.

Alcohol and caffeine can both interfere with the sleep cycle, making it harder to get a good night’s sleep.

To get restful sleep, it is recommended that people limit electronic use before bed. Keeping a sleep diary is recommended for determining the best sleep schedule.

Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet gives patients the fuel they need to feel more energetic and minimize fatigue.

Exercise daily

Daily exercise can help people with LEMS feel more energetic, as well as making it easier to get a good night’s sleep.

Pace yourself

Try to break up weekly to-do lists into smaller tasks that can be spaced out over a day or a week. Don’t overdo!

Avoid overheating

For people with LEMS, getting overheated can make fatigue worse. Patients are advised to keep cool, limit time outside on hot days, and be careful not to overdo when exercising.

Where can I find out more?

More questions? See our FAQs page.

We have some information about fatigue caused by LEMS on our “Fatigue” page. We also regularly publish news stories on our website about research and potential new treatments being developed for LEMS.

Last updated: July 23, 2019

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Lambert-Eaton News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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About the Author

Emily Malcolm, PhD Emily holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Iowa and is currently a postdoctoral scholar at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She graduated with a Masters in Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology and holds a Bachelors in Biology and Chemistry from the University of Central Arkansas. Emily is passionate about science communication, and, in her free time, writes and illustrates children’s stories.