Search
Close this search box.
Search
Close this search box.

Why Am I So Tired With Diverticulitis? Top 18 Reasons Explained

Why am i so tired with diverticulitis

Listen to the Podcast:

You’re tired, but you don’t know why. After a long day of work, it’s normal to feel tired. But if you feel very tired and don’t have any energy, you might have diverticulitis. You may wonder “Why am I so tired with diverticulitis”.

Diverticulitis is an intestinal condition that happens when pouches called diverticula form on the wall of your intestine.

It seems that you are inquiring about the possible reasons for experiencing fatigue in the presence of diverticulitis. It is common to experience fatigue in conjunction with diverticulitis.

Factors such as dehydration, anemia, insomnia, depression, obesity, allergies, pregnancy, aging, alcohol consumption, antibiotic use, and other medications can all be contributing factors to the fatigue experienced by individuals with diverticulitis. If there is still uncertainty, this article provides a comprehensive analysis of each topic.

Brief Explanation of Diverticulitis

diverticulitis

Diverticula are small, sac-like protrusions that may develop in the mucosal lining of the gastrointestinal tract. They are commonly located in the distal portion of the colon. Diverticula are a prevalent occurrence, particularly in individuals over the age of 40, and are typically asymptomatic.

Diverticulosis refers to the existence of diverticula. Diverticulitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and, in some instances, infection of one or more diverticula. Diverticulitis may present with intense abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and significant alterations in bowel patterns.

The recommended treatment for mild diverticulitis includes a period of rest, dietary modifications, and a course of antibiotics. In cases of severe or recurrent diverticulitis, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Causes of Diverticulitis

While the exact etiology of the diverticular disease remains unclear, there are various risk factors that may predispose individuals to the development of diverticulitis. According to a reliable source, the causes are:

  • Genetics
  • Diet
  • A reduction in the functionality of the immune system.
  • Obesity.
  • Lack of physical activity.
  • Smoking
  • Changes in the gut microbiome
  • Specific medications, such as steroids

Diverticulitis Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of diverticulitis include:

  • The discomfort you are experiencing could be continuous and last for multiple days.
  • The usual site of the pain is the lower left side of the abdomen.
  • You are experiencing nausea and vomiting.
  • Fever.
  • Abdominal tenderness.
  • Constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea.

Why Am I So Tired With Diverticulitis: 18 Reasons Explained

why am i so tired with diverticulitis

In addition to your diverticulitis, there may be a number of other factors contributing to your feelings of exhaustion. The following section will go over some of the reasons.

1. You Are Dehydrated

It is common for individuals to overlook the importance of consuming an adequate amount of water throughout the day. However, not consuming adequate amounts of water can lead to fatigue and weakness in the body due to dehydration. This is particularly true if you are suffering from diverticulitis.

If the pouches of your diverticula become infected or inflamed, it can be difficult for you to maintain proper hydration. It is recommended that you consume water and fluids regularly throughout the day. However, it is advisable to consult with your doctor regarding the appropriate amount of fluid intake per day, especially if you are suffering from diverticulitis.

2. Anemia

symptoms of anemia

If you don’t get enough iron in your diet, your body might not produce enough red blood cells. Red blood cells play a crucial role in transporting oxygen to the body’s various tissues and organs.

Without sufficient oxygen delivered by red blood cells, cells in the body cannot metabolize sugar into usable energy. This can cause you to become very tired.

In mild cases of anemia, you may be able to treat yourself at home by increasing your hemoglobin intake.

Diseases like diverticulitis, which cause poor digestion, can prevent you from absorbing iron and other essential nutrients from the food you eat. Iron absorption from food can be hampered by gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn’s disease and colitis.

3. Inflammation and the Immune System

Inflammation of the affected areas results from the body’s immune response to diverticulitis. Because of the effort required, the person may end the process feeling exhausted.

4. Malabsorption of Nutrients

Inadequate absorption of nutrients from the digestive tract may occur if you have diverticulitis. As a result, the body doesn’t have what it needs to keep its energy levels high.

5. Sleeping Inability

symptoms of sleeping disorder

Inflammation of the digestive tract causes diverticulitis. Inflammation of any kind can disrupt your body’s natural rhythms for sleeping.

As a result, diverticulitis can make it hard to get to sleep. Along with your diverticulitis, unusual fatigue may be a result of not getting enough quality sleep.

Hormones like somatotropin help the body heal, but when you don’t get enough sleep, your body doesn’t produce enough of them.

Because of this, diverticulitis can disrupt not only your sleep but also your body’s natural ability to recover from illness.

6. Age

Several physiological changes occur with age that put us at greater risk for developing chronic diseases. Additionally, as we age, we experience an increase in fatigue.

Diverticulitis is more prevalent in the elderly than in the younger population.

7. Alcohol Intake

Consumption of alcohol can have a number of unfavorable effects on our bodies. Having diverticulitis, on the other hand, makes a person more susceptible to the negative effects of alcohol, including fatigue.

8. Serious Illness

When you have a serious illness like diverticulitis, feeling exhausted is normal and should not be unexpected. It is going to be very difficult for you to have a restful night’s sleep whenever you are dealing with a serious illness. Having this effect on you can make you feel groggy and listless throughout the day.

9. Obesity

risk of obesity

It’s not surprising that obesity or being overweight can lead to fatigue, particularly if you have diverticulitis.

Being overweight or obese can also increase your risk of developing diverticulitis in the first place. As a doctor, I recommend that you maintain a healthy weight since having diverticular disease increases your susceptibility to other conditions like heart attacks and strokes. You will need to work with your doctor, to develop a weight loss plan that works for you.

10. Pain and Discomfort

The discomfort brought on by diverticulitis can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep, which can lead to an individual feeling perpetually exhausted. Because of the discomfort, it may be difficult to participate in regular activities, which will have the effect of lowering overall energy levels.

11. Depression

Some patients with serious or chronic illnesses experience depression as a result of their condition. Major depressive disorder symptoms include-

  • Disinterest in normally enjoyable pursuits
  • Slimming down
  • Put on Weight
  • Lack of sleep
  • Fatigue

Feeling exhausted and unmotivated on a regular basis is a common symptom of depression. Having diverticulitis can make normal activities uncomfortable or impossible. As a result, chronic diverticulitis may contribute to emotional distress.

12. Allergic Reaction

Dietary restrictions may begin with a diagnosis of diverticulitis. In addition, some people may have severe reactions to particular foods.

Fatigue and discomfort are common results of severe allergic reactions.

If you have food allergies, be sure to tell your doctor. A diet plan that takes into account both your diverticulitis and your allergy can be recommended by your doctor to help you adjust.

You may find relief from your allergy symptoms by taking medication, such as antihistamines or adrenaline.

13. Pregnancy

pregnancy

The physical demands of pregnancy, wherein your body must meet those of both you and your unborn child, can be taxing. More food and calories are required than usual during pregnancy. This may lead to increased fatigue.

If you are experiencing pregnancy and diverticulitis, talk to your doctor. Medication prescribed by your doctor may make it easier for you to cope with both pregnancy and diverticulitis.

14. Restricted Diet

Patients with diverticulitis are often advised to follow a low-residue diet, which can be restrictive and may not supply enough nutrients for peak energy levels. Following such a diet plan has been linked to increased fatigue.

15. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormone production and regulation may be affected by chronic inflammation, such as that experienced during diverticulitis flare-ups. Symptoms like fatigue may be brought on by hormonal imbalances.

16. Physical Inactivity

It is possible that the pain and discomfort caused by diverticulitis will lead to a reduction in physical activity, which will in turn lead to a weakness in the muscles and a decrease in overall energy levels.

17. Antibiotic Intake

antibiotic intake

Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to manage a range of medical conditions including skin infections, lung infections, sinusitis, and urinary tract infections. Certain antibiotics may cause adverse reactions such as excessive fatigue.

It is common practice to administer antibiotics to individuals diagnosed with diverticulitis. Patients may experience adverse effects such as fatigue.

Antibiotics may potentially induce fatigue by disrupting the natural equilibrium of microbiota, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. This may potentially disrupt the body’s nutrient absorption process, leading to feelings of fatigue.

18. Other Medications

There are additional pharmaceuticals that may include fatigue as an adverse reaction. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider to exclude any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your fatigue. Several medications are included in the following list:

  • Antihistamines
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Antidepressants
  • Beta-blockers
  • Narcotics

How Long Does Fatigue Last After Diverticulitis?

The length of time someone feels tired after recovering from diverticulitis depends on a number of factors, including the individual’s health and the effectiveness of treatment.

Even after the acute phase of diverticulitis has passed, some patients continue to experience fatigue. This is because inflammation and infection cause the body to need time to recover and heal. Recuperating from diverticulitis more quickly is possible with the right combination of bed rest, healthy eating, and medical advice.

Even if you feel better after treating diverticulitis, you should see a doctor if you have persistent or severe fatigue. They will be able to tell you if your fatigue has a more fundamental cause or if you need any additional treatment.

Diverticulitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms

Diverticulitis and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) are distinct medical conditions with unique symptoms and etiologies. Although there may be some overlapping symptoms, such as fatigue, they can still differ in their clinical presentation. Here is a concise summary of both medical conditions:

Diverticulitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation or infection of diverticula, which are small pouches that can develop in the walls of the digestive system, particularly in the colon. Typical clinical manifestations of diverticulitis encompass abdominal discomfort, pyrexia, emesis, anorexia, and alterations in defecation patterns. The recommended course of treatment for this condition typically involves a multifaceted approach that includes the administration of antibiotics, analgesics, and dietary adjustments. In instances of significant severity, surgical intervention may be deemed necessary.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a multifaceted and persistent condition marked by profound exhaustion that is unresponsive to rest and exacerbated by cognitive or physical exertion. The etiology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) remains unclear, and there is no conclusive diagnostic test available to confirm the presence of this condition. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a condition that manifests with symptoms such as non-restorative sleep, cognitive impairment, myalgia and arthralgia, cephalalgia, and pharyngitis. The standard approach to managing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) involves symptom management and enhancing the patient’s quality of life.

Although fatigue is a common symptom in both conditions, it is important to note that they have distinct etiologies and require different therapeutic interventions. If a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of diverticulitis or CFS, it is imperative to advise them to seek medical attention from a healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Can Diverticulitis Affect the Bladder?

Diverticulitis can have an impact on the bladder or other adjacent organs, although its primary site of manifestation is the colon. This phenomenon may arise as a result of the intimate anatomical relationship between the bladder and the sigmoid colon, which is a frequent site of diverticulitis.

Diverticulitis has the potential to impact the bladder in various ways:

  1. Inflammation and infection: Diverticulitis may result in inflammation and infection, which may extend to the bladder, leading to discomfort and irritation.
  2. Fistula formation: In advanced stages of diverticulitis, the patient may develop an anomalous connection known as a fistula between the colon and the bladder. This condition may result in recurrent UTIs, frequent urination, or the passage of gas or feces through the urinary tract. A colovesical fistula, which is an abnormal connection between the colon and the bladder, typically necessitates surgical intervention for correction.
  3. Pressure and discomfort: During a diverticulitis episode, the swelling and inflammation of the colon can cause pressure on the bladder, leading to discomfort and urinary symptoms.

If a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of diverticulitis affecting the bladder, it is imperative to conduct a thorough clinical evaluation and diagnostic workup to confirm the diagnosis and institute appropriate management. As health professionals, we are able to assess if any complications have occurred and provide you with the most appropriate plan of action to manage your symptoms.

Diagnosis of Diverticulitis

The symptoms you describe to your doctor will be used to make a diagnosis of diverticulitis. They will conduct a thorough physical examination and order diagnostic tests to eliminate other potential causes, such as appendicitis or ovarian cysts.

Your doctor may perform any number of tests, including:

  • Blood and Urine Tests
  • CT Scan
  • Colonoscopy
  • Ultrasound

If your doctor suspects a blockage and you’re experiencing severe symptoms, he or she may recommend:

  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy
  • Retrograde colonoscopy

Diverticulitis Risk Factors

Those who are over the age of 40, who are overweight, or who have a history of diverticular disease in their family are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Additional contributors to your potential for developing this condition are:

  • Consuming insufficient fiber
  • Consuming foods that are low in nutrients
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Inactivity or prolonged periods of sitting
  • Not using any nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Previous experience with inflammatory bowel disease

How to Manage Diverticulitis and Tiredness?

  1. Consume a fiber-rich diet to help prevent constipation and alleviate diverticulitis symptoms. Incorporate whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your diet.
  2. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out toxins, improve digestion, and reduce fatigue.
  3. Get enough rest and stick to a regular sleep schedule to help your body recover and manage tiredness.
  4. To relieve fatigue and promote relaxation, engage in stress-relieving activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises.
  5. Low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can help improve your overall health and energy levels. Before beginning a new exercise regimen, always consult with your healthcare provider.
  6. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help you maintain consistent energy levels and reduce the workload on your digestive system.
  7. To manage diverticulitis and relieve symptoms, follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for antibiotics or other medications.
  8. Identify and eliminate foods such as caffeine, alcohol, and high-fat or processed foods that may aggravate your diverticulitis symptoms or contribute to fatigue.
  9. Excess weight can strain your body, including your digestive system. A healthy weight can be achieved through a well-balanced diet and regular exercise.
  10. Consult with your healthcare provider on a regular basis to monitor your condition, address any persistent symptoms or complications, and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Remember to seek personalized advice and guidance from a healthcare professional when dealing with diverticulitis and fatigue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Some frequently asked questions about diverticulitis and diverticular disease are as follows:

Are Diverticulosis, Diverticular Disease, and Diverticulitis the Same?

Diverticulosis is an asymptomatic medical condition characterized by the presence of diverticula, which are pouch-like structures that develop in the intestine. Diverticular disease is a gastrointestinal condition characterized by the presence of diverticula in the intestinal wall, which can lead to mild symptoms such as abdominal pain.

Diverticulitis is a pathological condition characterized by inflammation or infection of the diverticula, which can lead to significant clinical manifestations.

Can Diverticulitis Cause Hip and Leg Pain?

Diverticulitis commonly presents with abdominal pain, and occasionally, it may result in referred pain to adjacent regions such as the hip and leg. However, this occurs infrequently. It is recommended to seek consultation from a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and to exclude other potential causes if you encounter hip or leg discomfort.

Does Diverticulitis Cause Infertility?

There is no evidence to suggest that diverticulitis has any impact on fertility. Endometriosis can potentially lead to difficulties with conception as a result of inflammation in the abdominal organs or blockages in the fallopian tubes.

What Foods Trigger Diverticulitis?

Consumption of low-fiber foods such as seeds, nuts, popcorn, and corn can act as a trigger for diverticulitis. Fatty meats and dairy products are among the common triggers. It is recommended to adhere to a diverticulosis diet in order to minimize the likelihood of developing diverticular disease.

How to Relieve Diverticulitis Pain Fast?

  • NSAIDs like ibuprofen may help relieve pain but consult your doctor first.
  • Avoid strenuous activity to rest your digestive system.
  • Heat your abdomen to reduce pain and relax muscles.
  • Hydrate to flush toxins and maintain digestion.
  • Give your colon a break by eating broths, water, and herbal teas. Your doctor may suggest reintroducing solid foods slowly.
  • Avoid trigger foods like spicy, fatty, or high-fiber foods.

Final Notes

The primary goal of this article was to address the question, “Why am I so tired of diverticulitis?” In this article, we have tried our best to cover every angle and offer every possible explanation. Gaining a deeper comprehension of the circumstance will improve your ability to deal with it and make things easier for you.

If your symptoms persist for a longer time than that and the aforementioned treatments aren’t helping, talk to your doctor.


Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Related Articles

Top Trending

Personal Injury Incident
Understanding Your Rights: What To Do After A Personal Injury Incident?
woman hairdresser in modern beauty salon with hairbrush and client.
Wave Goodbye to Hair Loss: Hair Loss Treatment for Women
March 29 Zodiac
March 29 Zodiac: Exploring the Unique Personality & Future Predictions
Top Vegetarian Destinations
Top Veggie Paradises: Discover the World's Best Vegetarian Destinations
Female Pokemon Characters
A Complete List of 30 Top Female Pokemon Characters in the Universe

LIFESTYLE

Tips to Help You Find Confidence
Five Quick Tips to Help You Find Confidence
Top Countries Where Weddings Cost a Fortune
Top Countries Where Weddings Cost a Fortune: A Global Ranking
Why Finland world Happiest Country
Unveiling the Secrets: Why Finland is the World's Happiest Country?
paul giamatti weight loss
The Ultimate Guide to Paul Giamatti's Impressive Weight Loss Journey
Best-Selling Perfumes in History
Discover the Best-Selling Perfumes in History: Timeless Fragrances

Entertainment

Female Pokemon Characters
A Complete List of 30 Top Female Pokemon Characters in the Universe
Disney Plus Hulu Merge Streaming Service
Disney Plus & Hulu Merger: More Than Just a Streaming Bundle
Elden Ring Endings Explained
Elden Ring Endings Explained: A Comprehensive Guide in 2024
meteorite staff elden ring location
Ultimate Guide to Finding the Meteorite Staff Location in Elden Ring
did joni lamb remarry
Did Joni Lamb Remarry According to Biblical Principles?

GAMING

Elden Ring Endings Explained
Elden Ring Endings Explained: A Comprehensive Guide in 2024
meteorite staff elden ring location
Ultimate Guide to Finding the Meteorite Staff Location in Elden Ring
isolated divine tower elden ring
How to Solve the Mystery of the Isolated Divine Tower Elden Ring
Casino Books to Keep You Hooked
Casino Books to Keep You Hooked!
AI for Competitive Advantage in iGaming
Leveraging AI for Competitive Advantage in iGaming

BUSINESS

bill gates india global advancement
Bill Gates Highlights India as Crucial to Worldwide Advancement
Rafaela Nonnenmacher Bundchen
Rafaela Nonnenmacher Bündchen: The Youngest of Gisele Bündchen's Siblings
Chiefs Owner Net Worth
Chiefs Owner Net Worth Breakdown in 2024 [Latest Update]
Bitcoin Holding Despite Low Activity
Bitcoin's Standstill: Low On-Chain Activity Yet No Rush to Sell, Says Analyst
Reddit AI User Data Stock Soar
Unlocking Reddit's Success: How AI Data Boosted Its Stock?

TECHNOLOGY

How Many Wheels Are There in the World
How Many Wheels Are There in the World? The Ultimate Investigation
Ideas for QR Codes
Creative Design Ideas for QR Codes
Saudi-Owned Moroccan Plant's $47M Breakdown
Solar Power Setback: Saudi-Owned Moroccan Plant's $47M Breakdown
Building Blocks
Exploring Multichain Future: The New Era of Blockchain Building Blocks
Apple Partners with Baidu for AI Solutions
Apple Partners with Baidu for AI Solutions: Inside the Tech Giant's Move

HEALTH

woman hairdresser in modern beauty salon with hairbrush and client.
Wave Goodbye to Hair Loss: Hair Loss Treatment for Women
Top Vegetarian Destinations
Top Veggie Paradises: Discover the World's Best Vegetarian Destinations
brandon and mary
The Misconceptions Surrounding Brandon and Mary's Health Announcement
Luxury Depression Treatment
7 Reasons to Opt for Luxury Depression Treatment and How to Choose One?
Best Travel Jobs
11 Best Travel Jobs to Consider in 2024