9. Fatigue: The Overwhelming Weariness from Gastroenteritis
A somewhat unexpected, but frequently reported symptom of gastroenteritis, is fatigue. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill tiredness but an overwhelming, consuming weariness that seems disproportionate to the perceived exertion.
Several factors converge to induce fatigue during gastroenteritis. Firstly, the body is expending significant energy battling the invading pathogens.
Secondly, symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting can lead to dehydration and loss of vital nutrients, sapping the body’s energy reserves. Lastly, the disrupted sleep and stress associated with being ill can further exacerbate fatigue.
While gastroenteritis itself is a transient condition for many, the fatigue it induces can linger. This post-viral or post-infectious fatigue can be particularly challenging, making routine tasks seem herculean. It underscores the importance of allowing the body ample time to recover, even after the more overt symptoms have receded. (9)
