Persistent fatigue with GPA

[Main1234]

Hi

Advise please. My husband seems to have less energy now than when he was facing his infusions and high doses of steroids. He is in drug reduced remission and newly diagnosed middle of last year.

He is now on aza, and 5 mgs steroids and is ok except for fatigue.

He would like obviously to build up his energy levels and exercise. Any suggestions would be very welcome. He is 65 but was fit and ran regularly he has no co mobidities but the GPA affected his lungs but we have been informed they are now ok.

Any suggestions would be much appreciated. The fatigue is getting him down he just wants to get going again!!

[Chris-Bromsgrove]

Hi Main1234. Fatigue is sadly one of the the persistent symptoms that afflict a lot of us. Mine comes and goes and is generally worst after a virus. I recall during my initial treatment I did at times feel full of energy but I suspect that was more of an illusion brought about by euphoric feelings, a side effect from the high dose of prednisolone. I quickly found out I tired easily despite thinking I had energy. Now in remission I do have more energy when I put my mind to it but sometimes its difficult to get the enthusiasm or motivation to start. I think you do have to push yourself to exercise in order to avoid a downward spiral. My consultant always advocates this but adds "don't over do it of course". Chris

[Main1234 in reply to Chris-Bromsgrove]

Thank you chris , don’t think this weather helps as it’s difficult to get out for a walk . His consultant also says the same... easier said than done

[Hidden]

Hi,

Fatigue is one of the most enduring and difficult to treat symptoms of any chronic disease.

The starting point is to make sure that a patient is in remission as inflamation can cause fatigue. After that it’s making sure that everything is optimum, things worth checking are Vit D and B12 levels as both can be low in Vasculitis and cause fatigue.

After that pacing, graded exercise, a good nights sleep, healthy diet and weight etc can help. Exercise definitely helps fatigue but too much can be detrimental, how a patient is feeling psychologically can have an impact as well.

OT and physiology referrals can be helpful and some areas run fatigue courses.

[Main1234 in reply to Hidden]

He has had his routine monthly bloods today so will get results next week... think it’s all hitting him that this is a chronic long term condition... think at the moment it’s like walking through treacle !!