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FATIGUE!!!


Tue, March 09, 2010 9:54 PM

Hello All

I am 28 years old and was diagnosed with UC back in September of 2008.
Initially I did not feel the fatigue.  I went through different medications, then Remicade, Humira and now Lialda.  
The thing is that I am always fatigued no matter what I do.  I wake up tired even when I get enough sleep.  I will admit I have been having a hard time sleeping through the night but even on weekends when I do get enough sleep I'm still tired!!
Its affecting my personal life, my job and even romantic life. 

Does anyone out there have any suggestions for me?  I would appreciate any!
I also wonder if it ever gets better with time so I have something to look forward to

FPO magonza8279
Joined Mar 18, 2009

Thu, April 01, 2010 11:24 AM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

I am brand new here, and I don't know that I can offer a whole lot of "advice". All I know, is that after this last stay in the hospital, I have felt fatigue unlike previous stays. After blood tests, my doctor told me that I was anemic. So, I got some iron and folic acid pills yesterday to see if it will help. It sounds simple, after all that you have been through, but it may help.

Good Luck!

FPO surfside
Joined Apr 1, 2010

Wed, March 24, 2010 4:47 PM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

Hello!  I totally understand how you are feeling!  I have no energy for anything.    I have a wonderful 6 year old who wants mom to play, and I have no desire.  I have Chron's and none of the doctors seem to help.  My iron is low, and that is all they say.  I take vitamins,and it still doesn't help.  Recently I started trying these "energy"patches. Precision3.com I think they are working some.  They may be worth a try for you.  If they don't work, I know someone who will buy them from u.  Let me know what you think.  I will talk to you anytime.1-815-541-0605.

Lynnette

FPO lforth
Joined Nov 23, 2008

Sat, March 20, 2010 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

The fatigue could also be emotional, have you seen a therapist about this?  I almost think that's a must, I sure am seeing a therapist to deal with my emotions about my loss of health! (I just got it last summer)

FPO scubagirl3
Joined Jan 21, 2010

Fri, March 12, 2010 7:31 PM

 Reply posted for bwebb.

Thank you all so much for taking the time to write back about this.  I appreciate all your thoughts and suggestions 

FPO magonza8279
Joined Mar 18, 2009

Thu, March 11, 2010 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

Fatigue...  When I am at my wit's end and just really ready to collapse, I have a funny little thing that helps.  It does not cure and it is totally a mental thing but it is my little trick.  My darling husband will take one look at me and say "Baby, we need to get some pineapple juice in you."  Pineapple juice helps me.  It gives me a little perk up.  It does not solve the problem. The liquid helps the dehydration, the natural sugar helps the energy, the vitamin C is just great, but the mental association is the biggest.  Pineapple juice brings back a cherished memory from childhood.  It also takes me to a beach in my mind.  This little thing gives me the perk up I need to carry on or to just smile and hug my hubby.  Baby steps, everyone, baby steps.  Find a little trick that will give you a boost.  Smiles make a difference and help ease stress.

Breezy

FPO breezy
Joined Jan 5, 2009

Wed, March 10, 2010 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for Titan1.

Fatigue is so frustrating. I had a realization a few years ago that there's some level of fatigue that cannot always be treated and at times, you have to learn to just cope. Titan1, you really summarized my own feelings and observations about fatigue really well.  I think part of the fatigue we all feel is obviously part of the disease and the inflammation. Even if we're not in a flare, the disease and the meds reduce our energy levels. But the other part of the fatigue is also the stress that accompanies a chronic illness. There's legitimite stress and worry that comes from managing your life with a chronic illness and it's exhausting. When I'm not feeling well, I can't even put into words how tiring it is for me to "pretend" that I'm ok to be able to get through work and social interactions, to have to plan for bathroom breaks, access to appropriate foods, having a back up plan in case you get fatigued, doctor's visits, tests, etc. It's so much to manage, on top of life's typical stressors. I also make sure I'm hydrated.  I've noticed a connection between even minor dehydration and fatigue (especially if I'm having fevers). I drink at least two liters of water a day. I also do yoga/stretching or take short walks when I'm feeling super fatigued. I try to expose myself to sunlight for 10 or 15 min/day for Vitamin D. Take it easy on yourself - rest and get a good sleep routine but also find some time for friends. I plan quick dates with my friends for tea or a chat rather than a big night out or shopping, etc. I find massage helpful, too, b/c I suffer from joint inflammation. And don't hesitate to talk to someone supportive and set limits at work and with family and friends when you're just too tired.

FPO 6mb03
Joined Feb 12, 2010

Wed, March 10, 2010 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

I feel your pain!  I was diagnosed with CD in 2001 and have yet to find something that helps my fatigue.  I have good days, and I have bad days, but most of the time, I just feel tired.  I think the most important thing to remember is that your body is fighting a disease (whether or not you are in remission) on a daily basis.  Because of this, we feel tired. 

Just remember to take care of yourself, and most importantly, learn when you need to "take a break".  Whatever you do, don't give up hope!

FPO jazzy
Joined Mar 6, 2010

Wed, March 10, 2010 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

Oh, I hear you on the fatigue. I think often the fatigue comes from the chronic inflammation, we may have some even though we don't have big symptoms. I think the underlying inflammation is a big factor, at least with me.


The other thing, and I can only speak for myself is the stress of dealing with the disease. It takes a lot of energy when there is "background" such as planning for the bathroom, having a commitment and wondering if you'll be able to fulfill your obligation, trying to act "normal" when you're not feeling that way etc. I can push myself through some of these things but at some point it just wears me out.

I try various things which all work, at least somewhat. First of all I try to stay hydrated. When I'm low on fluids I feel whipped and sick no matter what. I stay away from sugary stuff to avoid the "highs and lows" of digestion. I take anti anxiety medication when needed, and try to do some stretching exercises when I'm really fatigued as the aerobic stuff knocks me out.

I guess the bottom line is if you can figure out if you're in a mild flare or if it's stress that's the bigger issue, then you can address it. I wish I had an answer but I'm still looking myself.

FPO titan1
Joined Sep 1, 2008

Wed, March 10, 2010 3:37 AM

 Reply posted for magonza8279.

Wish you luck on your fatigue, I take 6mp and works good for my almost never ending gut pain.  I work night shift not to many people understand how tired a person can get when they spend almost most of their day on the toilet.  Stay away from the Rx-Abiene sure it works to put you asleep but it'll upset your stomach and change your mood.  I'm still trying to stop using the med.

FPO bwebb
Joined Mar 10, 2010

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