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Endometriosis and Fatigue

Endometriosis and Fatigue

By: Kelly Dolinger

Endometriosis is a disease where the cells that line the uterus are found in other parts of the body. Common implant sites are the outside of the uterus, the ovaries, and the pelvic side wall. However, they have been documented in almost every part of the body. Their presence causes pain, inflammation, and eventual scarring and anatomical distortion. In addition to its other symptoms, endometriosis is associated with fatigue. Now the reason for the fatigue is not quite clear. It could be simply a reaction to the constant inflammation in the body, it could be a reaction to the increased stress from dealing with chronic pain, it may be due to autoimmune processes of the disease. No one is sure. How do you cope when you're energy levels are much lower than they used to be? How do you get through the day when you wake up exhausted?

Get the Best Quality Sleep you can

  • Much of the time fatigue can be a result of interrupted sleep or simply the lack thereof.
  • Make your bed as comfortable as possible
  • Clean, soft sheets and cozy comforters are nice to curl up in even when sleep itself is elusive
  • Try using pillows as support behind your back, between the knees, or even under a swollen belly
  • Sleep when you can, don't feel guilty or lazy if you find that you need naps or to "sleep in"
  • Know that its OK to ask your doctor for help
Do What you Can WHEN You can

  • Clean in small bursts instead of trying to go for 2 hours straight
  • Scatter your weekly tasks throughout the week instead of trying to do everything in one day
  • Prioritize what truly needs to be done, and let what can wait for another day
  • Try and find easier ways to do what needs to be done : fold your laundry sitting down, get a stool in your kitchen so you don't have to stay on your feet, have playtime with your kids on the couch or in bed

    Take Care of Your Body

    • Eat & drink high quality food
    • Avoid caffeine and alcohol which can make fatigue worse
    • Drink enough water -- dehydration can contribute to fatigue
    • Investigate nutritional and herbal supplements: always check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding to your regimen
    • Try and find time for daily exercise, even if at first you can only handle 5 minutes. Eventually, it can increase your stamina.
    Take Care of Your Spirit

    • Find time each day for something that you want to do, as opposed to have to do
    • Commune with your Higher Power (if you acknowledge one) through prayer, meditation or ritual
    • Talk to supportive friends and family
    • Find a support group in your community or even online
    • Keep a journal where you can vent
    • Remind yourself of the tiny blessings in your life
    Know Your Limits

    • Be honest with yourself if you find that there are certain things you can't do anymore
    • Remember that pushing beyond your limits will only result in more fatigue, and possibly an increase in pain, irritability, and other symptoms
    • Give yourself permission to stop and rest when needed
    • Maximize Good Days
    • If nothing else appreciate them. Use them. Whether it be to catch up on needed tasks or just to be able to enjoy a longed for outing. For many endo sufferers days without fatigue are rare and precious commodities.



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