Symptom 7: Fatigue: More than Just Tiredness
A notable increase in fatigue, often disproportionate to activity levels, can be one of the early signs of ALS. You might find yourself feeling consistently drained, even after a full night’s sleep or without any significant physical exertion.
Fatigue in ALS is more than just an occasional feeling of tiredness. It’s a persistent sense of exhaustion that seems resistant to rest. You might find that your energy levels deplete quickly, or that you require longer periods of rest to feel refreshed.
This fatigue isn’t simply about feeling sleepy or worn out after a long day. It’s about experiencing a persistent lack of energy that’s hard to shake off, despite adequate rest. It’s also not about feeling mentally tired, though that can be a component. The key is to pay attention to whether you’re feeling physically exhausted without a clear cause.
The exact cause of this fatigue isn’t entirely clear, but it’s likely a combination of the disease’s overall impact on the body and the extra effort required to compensate for weakening muscles. Remember, the fatigue associated with ALS often seems disproportionate to activity levels.
Acknowledging this symptom isn’t about assuming ALS every time you feel tired. It’s about noting changes in your energy levels, particularly if they’re persistent and don’t seem tied to other factors like stress or lack of sleep. Awareness of this potential early sign of ALS can aid in timely diagnosis and disease management. (7)
