Crohn's disease symptom: Coping with fatigue

Is fatigue a common symptom of Crohn's disease? What can be done about it?

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Answer

Fatigue is a fairly common symptom of Crohn's disease and can have many causes. Treatment depends on the underlying cause.

During a flare of Crohn's, you may experience fatigue and lethargy as your body fights the disease. In such cases, treatment is directed at the active Crohn's disease. Other causes of fatigue may include:

• Anemia. This may result from blood loss or nutritional deficiencies associated with Crohn's disease. Treatment is directed at correcting the anemia with iron supplements and also at the Crohn's disease.
• Depression. Feeling sad or depressed is common among people with chronic diseases, such as Crohn's. If these symptoms are severe or interfere with your daily activities, you should discuss them with your doctor. Treatment may include antidepressants or psychotherapy.
• Side effect of medication. Certain drugs used to treat Crohn's disease, such as methotrexate and sulfasalazine, may cause fatigue. If medication is the culprit, your doctor may recommend switching medications.

Many herbal supplements are marketed as treatment for fatigue. But many of these contain potentially harmful stimulants. Also, no herbal supplement has been shown to effectively treat fatigue associated with Crohn's disease. The best way to prevent fatigue is with regular exercise, a healthy diet and adequate sleep.

If you have fatigue, consult your doctor. It is important to identify the underlying cause so appropriate treatment may begin.

RELATED

• Crohn's disease

MayoClinic.com Bookstore

• 'Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health,' Second Edition (Softcover)

Web Resources

• Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America