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Posted 10/7/2007 1:21 PM (GMT 0)
I have been doing really well since July and I'm thrilled! BMs once a day, no blood, no diarreah, no pain. I still do not have my energy levels back to normal though. Is this typical? Any suggestions on what I can do?

Thanks!

Posted 10/7/2007 1:57 PM (GMT 0)
The only times I've had very low energy were when I got off prednisone.  Were you on it recently?  As soon as I got below 10mg of pred, I had a hard time keeping myself awake throughout the day.  And from what I remember, it lasted months.  I'm on pred again, so looks like I have that to look forward to in a few weeks.  If that's not what's causing your lack of energy, then I'm not really sure exactly what it would be, though it obviously has something to do with this insane disease.
Posted 10/7/2007 2:25 PM (GMT 0)
I'm always low energy. I believe mine is related to my depression, but it could be the UC.

I have my two chronic illnesses pretty well under control with meds, etc., but the low energy is something that just frustrates the heck outta me. I cannot seem to shake it. And I didn't used to be this way. My favorite thing to do, it seems, is sleep. Ugh!

Mitz
Posted 10/7/2007 2:41 PM (GMT 0)
Ah, so that is the explanation? I am alternating 5 mg and 0 mg Prednisone daily. I had been hoping to be off by now but the Remicade infusions don't seem to last the entire 8 weeks so I stopped the taper until I have the next infusion (next week). I am so tired (and nauseous as well) that I can barely make it through my rather physical work dy. Thank goodness for this three-day weekend! How long can I epxect this to last? I have been on Pred for just shy of 18 months.

  

Posted 10/7/2007 4:01 PM (GMT 0)
I've never completely regained my energy :( I tend to think it's the UC itself.
Posted 10/7/2007 4:35 PM (GMT 0)
O.k., I'm going to bring up the dreaded concept--exercise. Are you exercising on a regular basis? I suffer from "chronic fatigue"--definitely a result of my IBD/IBS. Have had a really challenging year and about 5-6 weeks ago decided to, as much as I can, exercise regularly. I try to treadmill min. 30 min., free weights every other day and stretch/restorative yoga type stuff daily--I do it all at home, b/c the easier I make it for myself, the more likely I will do it. It hasn't decreased my sx's any, but I do see a difference physically--more stamina, sleep is more restful, slight increase in energy, not as lethargic.
Posted 10/7/2007 4:41 PM (GMT 0)
You're right, Lucy.

The problem is, for most of us, exercise is no fun. If we don't have energy to do things we enjoy, it's really hard to find the energy to do things we don't like -- even if we KNOW it will make us feel better. And, of course, when you are depressed, you not only have zero energy, all you have is NEGATIVE energy. It's just about impossible to get off square one while depressed -- at least it is for me.

But that said, I did just get home from a walk with the kids (my dog and parrot) and I'm sweating profusely. I'm not actually thinking about anything more active for the rest of the day than a shower (and a nap, I admit), but I feel better if for no other reason than the three of us really needed some stimulation and fresh air!

Mitz
Posted 10/7/2007 4:47 PM (GMT 0)
First, I've never been on prednisone. Asacol is the only medication I've taken for my UC.

I have been exercising some. Still not back to my old routine, but I keep trying to get there. Mostly walking - treadmill or outside. Trying to hit the gym once a week for weights and elliptical, but have not been making it quite that often. Took a walk on Friday and then was wiped out Friday evening. Just got back from the gym today, so we'll see how I do later!
Posted 10/7/2007 4:56 PM (GMT 0)
I forgot to state that my favorite part of exercise is at the end, when I know it's over.
Posted 10/8/2007 1:50 AM (GMT 0)

When I was on asacol,I was so tired all of the time.  I had to get off of it because of the exhaustion it caused.  But I also think the disease itself is exhausting as our bodies are constantly fighting inflammation.

Posted 10/8/2007 1:46 PM (GMT 0)
There are some days (while in remission) that I can barely move an arm or leg because I am so tired. When I'm flaring - forget it! That arm and leg are staying where they are! :) I too believe that it's the disease because your body is constantly at war with itself. How can that not tire you out??? Like everyone suggested, excersize, get lots of rest, eat healthy (if you can), drink lots of fluids.......but if the exhaustion continues or gets worse, you might want to go and have your B levels checked.
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