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Oct 03, 2023

Constant Fatigue and Health Decline Post-Ileostomy - Seeking Advice

This topic is about a 67-year-old woman who has been living with an ileostomy due to Crohn’s disease for over six years. Recently, she has been experiencing persistent fatigue, headaches, and a low mood. Despite addressing vitamin B12 and magnesium deficiencies with regular injections and making dietary changes, her symptoms continue. Here are some suggestions and insights that might help:

1. **Re-evaluate Crohn’s Activity**
- Consider requesting an endoscopy or imaging to check for any new or recurring gastrointestinal inflammation.
- Review her current Crohn’s medications to see if adjustments or additional therapies are needed.

2. **Conduct a Full Deficiency and Endocrine Screen**
- Check levels of iron (including ferritin), vitamin D, potassium, and thyroid function (TSH, T4).
- Low levels of vitamin D or iron can contribute to fatigue and mood changes.

3. **Screen for Depression and Anxiety**
- Chronic illness and prolonged fatigue can lead to mood disorders. Addressing both physical and emotional health may improve her energy levels.

4. **Enhance Hydration and Electrolyte Strategy**
- Increase sodium and potassium intake with options like Saltstick Chews, McDonald’s fries, salted popcorn, V-8 vegetable juice, and Dasani water.
- Continue using St. Mark’s oral rehydration solution, but consider multiple servings or alternative formulas if her output remains high.

5. **Thicken High, Watery Output**
- Incorporate mashed potatoes or other starchy foods to slow down transit and help retain fluid.
- Monitor her response and adjust her diet as needed.

6. **Boost Overall Nutrition**
- Use nutritional drinks like Ensure or Carnation Instant Breakfast for extra calories, vitamins, and minerals.
- Maintain a routine of yogurt or other probiotics, especially after antibiotic treatments, to support gut health.

7. **Investigate Recurrent Infections**
- Identify the source of infections, as long-term antibiotics can worsen fatigue and gut symptoms.

8. **Manage Day-time Fatigue**
- Limit daytime napping to ensure fluid intake is spread throughout waking hours, reducing the risk of dehydration.

These steps might help in identifying the underlying causes of her symptoms and provide some relief.
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