Symptom 4: Fatigue and Weakness
In a world that’s always bustling with activity, feeling tired is often dismissed as a result of a packed schedule or sleepless nights. However, in the context of Crohn’s, fatigue dives deeper than just feeling worn out. It creeps in, weighing down the individual, sapping energy and enthusiasm, and often doesn’t lift even after ample rest.
The cause isn’t just the body’s response to inflammation, but also the complications arising from it. For instance, anemia, resulting from the loss of blood due to intestinal bleeding, can manifest as constant weariness. Your body is literally running low on the cells responsible for transporting oxygen, leaving you feeling perpetually drained.
Then, there’s the issue of nutrient malabsorption. The inflamed intestines struggle to absorb vital nutrients and vitamins, leading to deficiencies. It’s like running a machine without the right fuel; it’s bound to sputter and stall.
Mental health plays a role too. The emotional strain of dealing with a chronic condition, the stress of sudden symptom flare-ups, and the anxiety surrounding social situations can all contribute to feelings of fatigue and mental exhaustion.(4)
