A-Z promising quotes: eXhaustion

Multiple sclerosis brings its own flavor of fatigue. In fact, the MS fatigue may be in a league all its own. It often strikes suddenly, without warning, and can wholly destroy any activities, plans, or goals for the day. Once it hits, it’s time out – or even lights out – until it passes.

This level of exhaustion can be devastating. MSers frequently liken it to “the wall” marathoners describe. We may go from full speed to full stop in a heartbeat.

This sudden sapping of vim and vigor might tax our emotions as well. We may feel angry, irritated, aggravated, isolated, or discouraged. Mostly, these feelings are directed at the MS MonSter and our own bodies’ refusal to cooperate with our intentions.

Kurt Vonnegut (1922-2007), American author (Cat's Cradle and Slaughterhouse-Five), made this observation about exhaustion the frustration that often accompanies it.

“Laughter and tears are both responses to frustration and exhaustion. I myself prefer to laugh, since there is less cleaning up to do afterward.”

Gee, what if a person laughs and cries at the same time?

In severe cases, physicians call such a phenomenon Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA), and it can be a symptom of multiple sclerosis.

On the other hand, laughing till we cry or crying till we laugh can just be utter punchiness – and a whole new level of exhaustion.

I think I need a nap now. (What’s a nap?)

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