From the time Rhondell Domilici was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at age 12, she committed herself to living a “normal” life — participating in activities, going out with friends, striving to achieve success in both school and work. But a social life paired with the demands of living with a chronic condition left her wiped out by week’s end. Even in high school, she’d go to bed after dinner on some Friday nights and sleep in all weekend, recouping her energy for the following week. Domilici is not alone. Many people with Crohn’s disease report experiencing fatigue, which can be both a symptom of the condition and a side effect of treatment. For Domilici, now the director of national advancement and volunteer engagement at the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, it’s essential that she manage her time to get enough rest, especially if she knows she has a demanding week ahead. She admits that at first it was difficult to turn down invitations from friends, but she knew she had to do it. “For me, it’s my wish for everyone who suffers from Crohn’s disease that they do not feel embarrassed or guilty to tell people, ‘I’m not feeling so great today. I could use a little extra sleep because I have a lot to do tomorrow,’" Domilici says. “It’s such a relief and a weight off your shoulders to feel comfortable saying that.” Read on to find out the various causes of fatigue and how to treat it. You may also have fatigue from a variety of sleep- and non-sleep-related issues, including:
9 Ways to Fight Crohn’s Fatigue
It’s true that your exhaustion could be due to sleepless nights, stress, and even situations unrelated to Crohn’s, but sometimes medical intervention may be needed. Work with your doctor to rule out or address what’s causing your fatigue and make lifestyle changes to cope. Here’s where to start: If you have Crohn’s, you’re used to problem solving to manage symptoms and flare-ups. Think of fatigue as another piece of the puzzle you and your doctor can figure out together. Additional reporting by Christine Gordon and Jocelyn Solis-Moreira.
