Health Do you have a problem youd like answered? If so, write to us at: Inspire magazine, 1 Cambridge Technopark, Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8PB or email here Ask the expert Fiona lacon is from Arthritis Cares Helpline team. You can call the helpline free on 0808 800 4050 Q I have rheumatoid arthritis and sometimes feel so exhausted that I cant do the things I enjoy, like spending time with my grandchildren. I tend to take on too much, then I feel wiped out and cant do the things I really want to, which makes me feel low. How can I minimise my fatigue? Jean, 66, Derby You can contact Arthritis Cares free Helpline on 0808 800 4050 for an informal chat in confidence. Were open Monday-Friday, 09:30-17:00. For more information, visit arthritiscare.org.uk/ exerciseandarthritis Fiona Lacon answers: Extreme tiredness and fatigue affects many people living with arthritis, particularly during a flare-up. It can be debilitating, but there are things you can do to help manage it so that you have more energy. Inflammation and chronic pain are two of the most common arthritis symptoms that cause fatigue, but learning how to manage your pain can help. Your GP or rheumatology team can give you advice and treat other causes of fatigue, such as anaemia. A change in medication following review may also help your energy levels. Acknowledging your fatigue is not a sign of weakness. Keeping a fatigue diary or chart may help you track the activities that tire you most, and highlight when you need more rest. Conserve your energy for the things that matter, like spending time with your grandchildren. Dont be afraid to ask for help, and remember that its OK to say no. Try to pace yourself, balancing activity with rest, and break tasks down into manageable parts perhaps spreading them throughout the day or week. For more tips, take a look at Arthritis Cares fatigue factsheet (arthritiscare. org.uk/do-i-have-arthritis/publications/1208-fatigue-factsheet) and Arthritis Research UKs booklet on fatigue, which includes a sample activity and fatigue chart (find it at arthritisresearchuk.org/arthritis-information/dailylife/fatigue). The most important thing is to find what works for you.