Posts In: Teens & Young Adults

What can I do to reduce my fatigue? REDUCING FATIGUE There are a range of actions you can take to reduce or manage your fatigue. The first, most important, thing for you to do is to ask your doctor or IBD nurse to check that you do not have active…

What causes fatigue in IBD? There are many factors which may contribute to fatigue in IBD. During a flare-up, fatigue may be caused by the body’s response to inflammation and illness, combined with: exhaustion disturbed sleep pain and anxiety Anemia, a common complication of IBD, can add to fatigue.

Student Help HOW DO I GET SUITABLE ACCOMMODATION? While some students prefer to continue living at home, for others living independently is an important part of the university experience. You may find you are offered a place in a student hall of residence for the first year and this can…

HOW DO I FIND OUT WHAT SUPPORT I MIGHT GET? If you request support, you will probably be invited to meet a Disability Adviser. You will need to take a supporting letter from your GP or consultant covering the symptoms of your condition and how flare-ups might affect…

Talking about fatigue One of the key difficulties with fatigue is that it can be difficult to discuss and explain it as a problem. This can mean that you may find it difficult to talk to your doctor about your fatigue, and therefore may miss out on receiving help. During…

The effects of drugs used for IBD Most of the drugs used for IBD have not been found to affect sexual drive or performance. However, there is some evidence that steroids can affect sexual satisfaction. They can also cause mood changes and depression, which may lead to loss of interest in…

The effects of surgery Surgery for IBD can often involve removal of part of the small intestine or part or all of the colon and rectum. This may result in an ileostomy or colostomy, or, for UC, the creation of an internal ileo-anal pouch (IPAA). For more information on common operations…

How does smoking affect Crohn’s Disease? In numerous studies, half or more of the adults with Crohn’s Disease were smokers when they were diagnosed. This suggests that people who smoke are more likely to get Crohn’s than those who do not smoke. Research also suggests that smoking can…

How does smoking affect Ulcerative Colitis? Research studies have shown that UC is less common in smokers than nonsmokers. Some people have developed UC once they have given up smoking. This suggests that smoking may delay or prevent UC, as well as reducing its severity. There are also…

How does fatigue affect people with IBD? Fatigue can have an effect on all aspects of life. Some people find it difficult to function at all when their IBD is active, both because of bowel symptoms, and also fatigue. Research and surveys suggest that fatigue may affect the lives of…