Why Am I So Tired With Diverticulitis? 

If you've ever asked yourself, "Why am I so tired with diverticulitis?" you're not alone. This common question points to a lesser-known but significant aspect of living with diverticulitis — extreme fatigue. 

While diverticulitis is primarily known for its impact on the digestive system, the energy drain it causes can be just as debilitating. 

In this article, we're going to dig into why diverticulitis can leave you feeling wiped out. We'll tackle questions like whether bed rest is needed and how to tell if things are getting worse. Plus, we'll look into how you might get some financial help through Canada's Disability Tax Credit, and how True North Disability Services can guide you through it.

What Is Diverticulitis? 

Ever wondered why diverticulitis can make you feel like you're running on empty? Let's break it down. Diverticulitis is when small, bulging pouches in your digestive tract (called diverticula) get inflamed or infected. Sounds unpleasant, right? It often is.

Now, these flare-ups aren't just about stomach aches. They can hit you with a bunch of symptoms like severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. But here's the kicker: they can also drain your energy big time. Why? Because your body is using up a lot of its resources trying to fight the infection and deal with inflammation. It's like your body is running a marathon it never signed up for.

So, Why Am I So Tired With Diverticulitis?

The fatigue and exhaustion associated with diverticulitis stem from several key factors. Here are 5 reasons why you might be feeling exhausted when dealing with diverticulitis.

1 Immune Response to Infection:

When diverticulitis kicks in, your immune system gears up to combat the infection. This heightened activity requires a significant amount of energy, often resulting in feelings of exhaustion and weariness.

2 Impact of Chronic Inflammation:

Inflammation naturally occurs as part of your body's defense mechanism. Research indicates that it can disrupt your sleep cycles, leading to less restorative sleep.

3 Disruptive Symptoms Impacting Sleep:

The discomfort and pain from diverticulitis can make a good night's sleep challenging. Additionally, frequent, urgent diarrhea episodes can further interrupt your sleep. 

4 Dietary Changes and Medication:

Often overlooked, changes in your diet to manage diverticulitis, along with certain medications, can also contribute to your tiredness. Some foods and medicines may have side effects that impact your energy levels.

5 Emotional and Mental Stress:

Dealing with a chronic condition like diverticulitis often brings stress and anxiety. The mental toll of managing a long-term health issue can be exhausting in its own right, affecting your overall energy.

6 Steps to Managing Fatigue in Diverticulitis

Battling diverticulitis is tough, and what's more challenging is the fatigue that often sticks around, even after you've gotten the condition under control. It's like the echoes of the disease linger, leaving you drained long after the main battle is won. 

So, how do you bounce back? 

Here are some strategies to help you manage and hopefully overcome this persistent tiredness:

#1 Prioritize Adequate Rest: 

Your body needs time to recover. Listen to it. If you're tired, rest up. It's not necessarily about staying in bed all day, but more about finding the right balance between being active and getting the relaxation your body demands. Focus on various types of rest, sometimes, resting is not just about laying down, it can also involve resting the mind.

#2 Focus on Sleep Quality: 

Disrupted sleep patterns are a big part of the problem. Work on improving your sleep hygiene – stick to regular sleep times, ensure your bedroom is a sleep-friendly environment, and avoid caffeine or screens before bed. Try melatonin and reduce blue light an hour before bed. Sleep is when your body can recover and replenish. Without proper sleep, it will be hard to recover from diverticulitis. 

#3 Diet Adjustments for Better Energy: 

Your diet plays a huge role. Collaborate with a nutritionist to create a plan that supports your digestive health while boosting your energy. This is especially important since diverticulitis may limit your food choices. 

#4 Hydration is Key: 

With diverticulitis, dehydration is a real risk, and it only compounds fatigue symptoms. Keep up with your fluids to fight off the tiredness. 

#5 Stress Management: 

Chronic illness comes with its fair share of mental and emotional stress, which can be exhausting. Try stress-busting activities like yoga, meditation, or even professional counseling.

#6 Light Exercise: 

Gentle, regular physical activity can increase your energy levels and overall well-being. Make sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen.

It’s crucial to understand that managing fatigue from diverticulitis goes beyond just treating the condition. It involves a holistic approach to your health. And if you find that the impact of diverticulitis on your life is significant, don’t overlook potential financial supports like the Disability Tax Credit, which can aid in managing the broader implications of the condition.

Struggling to Work and Live Normally Due to Diverticulitis? Explore How the DTC Can Help

When diverticulitis becomes a barrier to your everyday life and work, financial strain often follows. Here, the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) emerges as a potential lifeline. The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit from the Canadian government, designed to reduce the tax burden on individuals facing significant health challenges. It acknowledges the additional expenses and work challenges that come with managing a chronic condition like diverticulitis.

For those who qualify, the DTC can provide essential financial relief, helping to keep you afloat during tough times. Eligibility hinges on the severity and duration of your condition and how it impairs your ability to perform basic activities of daily living. Diverticulitis, particularly in its severe forms, can be debilitating, making tasks that once seemed simple feel overwhelming.

However, navigating the DTC application process can be complex, which often results in many deserving folks being denied support due to application hiccups. 

This is where True North Disability Services can help. At True North, we specialize in guiding individuals through the intricacies of the DTC application. Our expertise lies in understanding the specific requirements of the Canada Revenue Agency and assisting in preparing, submitting the necessary documentation, and advocating your claim until completion. We aim to simplify the process, ensuring that you can access the financial support you need without unnecessary stress or confusion.

Not sure if you’d be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit but interested to learn more about your options? Reach out to our Disability Tax Credit experts. 

We’re happy to guide you through the process and help you gain the support that you’re entitled to.

Summary:  So, Why Am I So Tired With Diverticulitis?

Experiencing fatigue with diverticulitis is common due to your body fighting infection and inflammation, disrupting sleep, and the effects of treatment methods. Understanding these reasons is key to managing your energy levels. Simple steps like better sleep practices and stress management can help. 

Importantly, if diverticulitis significantly affects your daily life, financial assistance like the Disability Tax Credit, with guidance from True North Disability Services, can offer substantial support. This article aims to empower you with insights and solutions for dealing with the draining effects of diverticulitis. 

Reach out for a free consultation today.