Incredible fatigue

[cfs2]

There was a post regarding this on 8/14/05 (Insane Fatigue), and it was the first time I have ever found anyone else with these symptoms. Then a response from another (so there are at least 3 of us!) - I believe there are more, but doctors tend to discount this, so we give up. I'm hoping others will post, and someone will research this. I need to stress that this is not, "I had a difficult bowel movement and wore myself out straining." These are normal bowel movements, and "fatigue" is too mild a word. It's a dizzying weakness, and I can immediately go to sleep and sleep for an hour or more afterward. My breathing also becomes deep and slow.

I share two conditions with the person who originally posted. I am overweight (5'2", 190 lbs), and have suffered from CFS (and this is when the condition first appeared). I don't feel that I ever recovered normal functionality "after" CFS, but hold down a full time job, etc.  FYI, my daughter experienced this condition for a brief time when she was about 15 years old.

Not sure if I am wasting my time, since there was no answer to the original post, but wanted to see if any new information might be available, or if someone is willing to research. My research has brought me here. Thank you for any help you can provide.

[Tiberio]

A related discussion, incredible fatique after bowel movement was started.

[SkylerMA]

What occurred to me on reading your symptoms--"dizzying weakness...go to sleep...breathing also becomes deep and slow"--was overstimulation of the vagus nerve. It can happen during a bowel movement, and can even cause fainting. Here is more information:

http://www.goaskalice.columbia.edu/2629.html

[cfs2]

My question was not about CFS, it was about weakness after bowel movements. Why would I post a question about CFS on a gastro site?! I merely mentioned that the other person with this problem had CFS as well. Did anyone read the question? Can I get my money back?

[Kalio1]

What tests have you had done so far? What are your symptoms besides debilitating fatigue?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

CFS is a difficult diagnosis to treat.  Studies have shown that the two modalities that may show benefit are cognitive behavior therapy and graded exercise.  

There is no known medical therapy for CFS.  Testing for other medical causes such as thyroid disease, Lyme, kidney/liver disease, vitamin b12 levels and anemia should all be considered to rule out other modalities.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_