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Unrelenting fatigue.

Posted , 7 users are following.

thomas44921
thomas44921

Hello.

After some advice please.

I am currently in the stages of being diagnosed with suspected colitis. I have had a stool test done which has shown high inflammation levels. I have seen a specialist who has gone over my symptoms and wants to do a colonoscopy next week. He thinks I have a strong chance of having colitis though.

Basically I have been bleeding for around 4 month with no cause. I have had a massive change in bowel habits from being regular to being constantly gassy, in pain and cramps and I find I am waking 3-4am to have a bowel movement which I have never done.

Currently I can't eat much without feeling sick and seem at my worst in the mornings with diarrhea, gas and cramps. I avoid wheat as that is an instant trigger.

I also have pretty bad anxiety and have had a history of IBS but my usual copping mechanisms for IBS have done nothing.

The biggest problem I can't manage is the fatigue. Its like a heavy fatigue that no amount of rest can shift and it's really impacting my life and work. I just can't function some mornings through sheer tiredness and that's after a deep 9 hour sleep! I have started a new job and it's an office job, on cold mornings with the heat on the battle to stay awake is hard. My manager wants me alert and is concerned I am becoming introverted but 90% of my energy is going into staying awake, let alone talking weekend fun rolleyes

What can I do to improve things?

I have stuck to a diet of mainly rice, chicken and fish. Bland. I take multivitamins and D3 (low on a vit blood test) and try and exercise but the fatigue makes it difficult. I have coffee twice a day just to perk up.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • armelle67759
    armelle67759 thomas44921

    Posted

    Hi Thomas. Your email spoke to me. I was diagnosed with UC 2 years ago but it’s mild. I have suffered from IBS c for years alongside fatigue. Debilitating fatigue. I could sleep for 12 hours and could have done the same again. If you are diagnosed with colitis, you will be given some medications and that should improve things. I have joined a group called colitis heal the natural way and have bought their kefir. Too soon to give feedback but I have more energy.. time will tell. Lots of good tips on there. Good luck.
  • Sbgoodguy
    Sbgoodguy thomas44921

    Posted

    Hello Thomas

    I have had mild to medium UC for 15 years but my current flare has seen me diagnosed with IBS also which I am told has led to my anxiety and lethargy. It comes in waves for me and no medication has totally erased it.

    Can I ask if you have a stressful job or much stress in your life. Also, do you tend to be a busy thinker, always thinking about stuff?

    Scott 

  • thomas05
    thomas05 thomas44921

    Posted

    Hi Thomas, I was diaganosed with UC five years ago. I can truly relate to the issue with fatigue. With a good diagnosis things will get better. I have been on Mesalazine from day one, and daily dose of  Calcium D3, Folic Acid, I was put on Azathioprine this has made a big improvement with good and bad weeks in relation to fatigue. Down side of Azathioprine is that it made me more susceptible to skin cancer. During this period I was also diagnosed with Addison’s  and Celiacs disease so my auto immune system has packed in. With luck they will get you under control quickly,  stay positive and don’t be afraid to tell colleagues of your problems, I was amazed how supportive other people can be. Best Thomas
  • ruari1
    ruari1 thomas44921

    Posted

    Fatigue sadly is one of the major side effects of UC. The sooner you have a diagnosis, the better and you will be given medication that may help. I avoid coffee myself, UC for 7 years now! If I feel the need I stick to decaf! You will find in time what agrees with you and what doesn't! It's a horrible condition but try not to despair, there is light at the end of the tunnel! You need to discuss your work situation with a doctor ASAP! Lots of fresh air, exercise and avoiding spicey foods helps! Let us know how you get on and don't give up just yet!    Good luck!

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