Fatigue in PD
Fatigue can be described as a deep, overwhelming tiredness that does not improve with rest. It is a non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) that can occur early or later in the disease. Fatigue can interfere with the effective management of PD symptoms, since exhausted people are less inclined to exercise and socialize. With fatigue, it may be difficult to stick to a daily routine.
Here are some resources to understand fatigue and explore practical strategies for management.
Fatigue may worsen during "off" times. Visit our webpage on motor fluctuations for additional resources.
Short Overviews
Fatigue and Parkinson’s
Published by Parkinson’s Foundation, 2019
This three-page fact sheet defines fatigue and outlines several causes of fatigue in PD. It suggests ways to work with your healthcare provider to manage fatigue, including current research results showing what is (and isn’t) effective in treating fatigue. Some tips to maximize energy and endurance are included.
Fatigue and Parkinson’s
Published by Parkinson’s UK, June 2020
This 11-page fact sheet identifies the symptoms of fatigue, its frequency among those with Parkinson’s disease, the possible causes of fatigue in Parkinson’s disease, treatments, coping strategies that include addressing sleep issues, depression and apathy.
Fatigue in Parkinson’s Disease
Published by American Parkinson Disease Association, 2019
This two-page fact sheet describes how fatigue manifests itself in Parkinson’s disease and its detrimental effect on quality of life. Some aspects may be treatable by improving sleep, altering Parkinson’s medications, treating depression, or through exercise. Disponible en español.
Fatigue
Published by Parkinson's Foundation
This webpage describes the importance of finding ways to cope with fatique in Parkinson's disease, thereby avoiding reduced work hours, or social activities, and maintaining a good quality of life. Symptoms, therapies, and tips for coping with fatigue are briefly outlined.
Fatigue and Pain
Pain and Fatigue in Parkinson’s Disease
By The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, July 2016
This 63-minute audio with slides is conducted as a panel interview of two doctors and a Parkinson’s patient about pain and fatigue in Parkinson’s disease. Discussion about pain is first, discussion about fatigue begins at 26:43 minutes. Registration is required, but is free.
Specialist Talks
Fatigue in Parkinson's Disease
By PMD Alliance, June 16, 2021
In this one-hour webinar, Joseph Friedman, MD, discusses the difference between fatigue and sleepiness. He distinguishes between four kinds of fatigue (emotional, cognitive, physical, and muscle), and he explains how to measure and treat it.
Parkinson’s Disease - Fatigue
By Michigan Medicine , December 8, 2015
This 29-minute video lecture by Dr. Praveen Dayalu at the University of Michigan’s Parkinson’s Disease and You Symposium, specifies treatable contributors to fatigue like, sleep issues, mood changes, OFF states, motor de-conditioning, or another medical issue. When no identifiable cause, try activity (physical, social, and mental), and caffeine (green tea). Good Q&A.
Thriving Through Occupational Therapy: Living Well with Parkinson’s & Fatigue
By American Parkinson Disease Association, August 7, 2025
In this 51-minute talk, Monika Lukasiewicz, OTR/L, discusses what fatigue means for people with Parkinson’s and shares practical tips for conserving energy, improving sleep, and adjusting daily activities. She also answers audience questions live.
Expert Resources
Fatigue in Parkinson’s disease: report from a multidisciplinary symposium
By Joseph H. Friedman, et. al. Nature Partner Journals, Parkinson’s Disease, January 14, 2016
This report summarizes an October 2014 symposium on fatigue in Parkinson’s disease. It reviews current knowledge on diagnosis, treatment, and physiology, considers insights from other disorders where fatigue is prominent, and concludes with recommendations to improve understanding and treatment of fatigue in Parkinson’s disease.
En Español
La fatiga en la enfermedad de Párkinson
Publicado por American Parkinson Disease Association, 2019
Esta hoja informativa de dos páginas describe cómo se manifiesta la fatiga en la enfermedad de Párkinson y su efecto perjudicial en la calidad de vida. Algunos aspectos pueden tratarse mejorando el sueño, ajustando los medicamentos para la Párkinson, tratando la depresión o mediante el ejercicio.
Last updated August 2025 by Stanford Parkinson's Community Outreach.