Managing Myasthenia Gravis: 4 Budget-Friendly Home Hacks to Conserve Energy

With myasthenia gravis (MG), we all know that the symptoms fluctuate day to day, hour to hour, minute by minute. Being able to make simple modifications around the house is a great tool to reduce physical strain. This way, we are conserving energy where needed and ultimately helping us get through the day.

Here are four simple, affordable ways I reduce physical fatigue and strain to keep up with daily chores without overexerting myself:

Use furniture sliders to reduce muscle strain

One of the biggest things that added a lot of strain was that cleaning up meant constantly having to move the couch, tables, and shelves to sweep or vacuum under them. The easiest and most cost-friendly solution I found was investing in some furniture sliders! While I did have to have help to place them under the legs of the couch, now when scooting things around it is 75% less strain.

Upgrade to a power mop for everyday cleaning

Another thing I invested in was a Swiffer PowerMop. Yes, sometimes Swiffers aren’t ideal as things need a little more pressure, but for practical everyday cleaning they are a great investment. The power mop solution can be a little expensive over time, with needing to buy the cleaning solution refills, but it is much easier than constantly wringing a mop out.

Set up a dedicated drop tray for brain fog

One symptom we don’t often take into account is the MG-related brain fog. I know for me, if I don’t place my keys in the exact same spot every time, I will quickly forget where I put them. That search triggers panic and stress, which immediately leads to increased muscle weakness.

To prevent this, I purchased a cheap little tray where I leave all my essential daily items that I don't want to lose track of. These trays can be purchased at a local dollar store or even a thrift store!

Choose a self-propelled lawn mower for yard work

I know many of us are unfortunately responsible for maintaining our yards. While yes, a riding lawn mower is more ideal, a push mower is much more budget-friendly.

When I cut the grass, I take a lot of breaks. However, the absolute lifesaver is using a push mower that has an automatic self-propel setting so you aren't fully manually pushing the full weight. Because let me tell you, cutting grass-especially up an incline- without that feature is a WHOLE nightmare!

Pacing yourself: Prioritize health over perfection

Being able to preserve your energy and reduce physical strain does not have to break the bank! It can be simple solutions that ensure you are putting yourself first while also making sure everything is getting done.

I know myself; I cannot afford a Roomba or the automatic vaccums/mops, but if I could, I would. Knowing what you need to ensure that you’re still putting yourself and your health first is most important. If you can afford something like the Roomba, go for it! But if you can't, divide and conquer.

Remember, there is no set time to have a task done, such as cleaning. If it takes you two hours to clean the living room, that is fine; no one can or should judge you. But taking simple steps, such as using furniture sliders, can help make the difference and even help cut down on some of the time it takes to clean.

It is all about YOU and YOUR needs. We don’t have to keep up with the housewives on Wisteria Lane.