Wednesday's Word

[DonnaBoll]

"Batteries Running Down"

This term is frequently used to describe the type of fatigue that is the most common symptom of PBC. Those who experience it know what they want to do or how they are going to do it, but their arms and legs just won't let them.

Research has shown that there is a change in the way that our muscles work when we have PBC. There is a build up of lactic acid after even the smallest amount of exercise that we do. This may help to understand the mechanism behind the fatigue occurring.

[Hlucio]

Thank you for this information Donna! Related to fatigue, is it possible that fatigue comes and goes? Even for months? I had this terrible fase with fatigue for sis months. Then seems to went away for two or three months. But a few weeks ago fatigue returns, even worst. I really don’t understand how it works. Really, it’s very frustrating !!

[DonnaBoll Administrator in reply to Hlucio]

What you are describing is so normal.. at least for me it is. I never know when it will just wash over me and I can hardly walk down the hall. It makes it hard so often to plan sociall events or even projects you want to get done at home. All I can say is that we have to learn to listen to our body and just give it the rest it needs. It can be very frustrating for sure when it's been awhile since you've felt this way and then POW! Since I had Covid around July 4th, it seems to be really lingering for me.

[Hlucio in reply to DonnaBoll]

Thank you for sharing this Donna. I’ve so much to learn about this condition. You’re right, probably strategy is important. I’ll try to do my best in this.

[DonnaBoll Administrator in reply to Hlucio]

It does take time to not only have these episodes of fatigue but how you best deal with them. Everyone is different in their fatigue. Some can push thru it... I find that very hard to do personally. I hope you find what works for you best. It can be a real 'trial and error' thing for us.

[234WARD03]

That also explains my cramps Donna. Runners suffer a huge surge in lactic acid in joints. That it turn causes cramps when they stop. Thankyou for the info. It has explained a lot.

[DonnaBoll Administrator in reply to 234WARD03]

It sure makes sense doesn't it? being well hydrated always helps as well to avoid the muscle cramps. Are you a runner?