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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted Today 5:25 PM (GMT 0)
Hi everyone,

I have only posted a few times on here, but I have to say that it is a nice relief in knowing that there is a forum like this.  When people do not have UC, it is hard for them to understand were you are coming from.  That one day you can be fine and the next, you can be in bed all day.

I was diagnosed in March 07 with UC.  In May 2008, I became a vegitarin (for ethcial reasons)  I take vitiams on a daily basis. 

I find that on occasion, I am extremely exhausted to the point that it is hard to get out of bed. Anyone else have loss of energy??

Also, in the last few months I have been sick on and off and have missed more days off of work, then I would like to have.  I am in love with my job and would hate to loose it.  Even though my work knows that I have UC, I think it is hard to them to understand.

As for today, I called in sick because I was having blood in my stool and didn't feel well.

My question is One:  Energy..anyone else have this problem on occassion and do you take anything for it?  Second:  I work tomorrow.  I plan on going in.  I want to talk to my boss and let her know how much I hate missing work, that I acknowledge the days that I have missed and how much it does frustates me when I do.  I want to let her know that I truly love my job.  Just don't know how to go about it or how to bring it up.  My boss has never said anything to me..but I want her to know my dedication for the work that I do.

Anyone help me out.  Has anyone ever had this conversation with their boss?

Thanks lot. 

Posted Today 5:44 PM (GMT 0)
It sounds like the conversation you want to have with your boss is already worked out. :) Just tell her the exact same things you told us.

As for the energy, yes I have days were I feel like I'm walking thru sludge and other days not so much. I had my blood levels checked including my B-12. All of them came out normal but I started on a B-12 supplement anyway since it's not toxic if you get too much (you get rid of excess B-12 thru the urine) and I have noticed a mark improvement in my energy levels. I no longer feel like I can literally fall asleep on my feet. When was the last time you had your blood check for your iron level or B-12/folic acid?
Posted Today 5:48 PM (GMT 0)
It's very common for those with inflammation to be tired a lot or most of the time, inflammation has that effect on the body so lack of energy certainly goes hand in hand with having inflammatory bowel disease...the only thing that has helped me is regular daily exercise, I work out at least 4-5/days a week and it's improved many things besides my energy (aided tremendously with depression and anxiety which can also go hand in hand with having IBD)...it's hard at first of course, to get started when you're so tired in the first place but it doesn't take long to see improvements (all around).

Start off with doing just 20-30 minutes of some cardio exercising 4 days a week and take it from there.

:)
Posted Today 6:07 PM (GMT 0)

I admit I don't know much about being a vegetarian but I know you have to get all the protein you need to keep your energy level up, etc.  Yes, I lose energy too but I am 68 and cannot exercise due to very bad knees.  I do what I can!

ElaineNY

Posted Today 6:53 PM (GMT 0)
I take a multivitamin and that helps me out with energy, etc. Exercise can also help you out. While on remission I enjoy hiking and walking long miles, that helps me out a lot.
Posted Today 7:03 PM (GMT 0)
From the diet channel - many vegetarians do not get enough protein - it is not in multivitamins...
"The bottom line is that most people get plenty of protein in their diets without even trying. For vegetarians it may be a little more difficult, but protein is still obtainable if you are diligent. Vegetarians should eat 3 servings per day of non-meat proteins, such as nuts, beans, milk, eggs, cottage cheese, cheese, etc.

The main long-term risk of following a strict vegetarian diet is B12 deficiency. B12 is typically very low in the vegetarian diet, and over time the body can become deficient. This usually takes many years, but it is a dangerous deficiency, as it serves as a vital part of many body chemicals. Non-meat sources of B12 are yogurt, milk, and eggs. "

ElaineNY
Posted Today 7:55 PM (GMT 0)
I also think you've said here what you should say to your boss. I had a similar problem a couple of months back, and said some of the things you have here, but nowhere near as succinctly - added a word of thanks to my boss, and he's been great. What do you do, by the way?

Have to agree that the volatile energy levels suck! Mine have been steadily improving since first major flare (was severley anaemic, and iron levels took a hammering as well). Taking supplements is a great idea - multivits are a good place to start, and I'd recommend one with iron, as iron levels are commonly depleted amongst us UC'ers.
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