What could be causing my fatigue, pain, and decreased libido?
Hi, Dr. T.
in 2006 I was diagnosed with pancolitis--ulcerative colitis throughout my entire colon. I was then put on Prednisone, then Mercaptopurine--a very potent, toxic drug that is classified as an immunosuppressant--it inhibits DNA and RNA growth. Since March of this year, I have felt very tired all day, and when I try to exercise, I get pain the next day, especially in my feet and hands. I am also taking prozac (60 mg per day) for OCD. I used to hike 3-4 times per week, and was very active. My libido has gone non-existent. Could my severe fatigue be from a suppressed immune system?
Answer
It could be from many causes, but I would begin by having your doctor check a free and total testosterone blood test and consider treatment if you are in the lower 30% of the normal range (to be "below normal" means being in the lowest 2% of the population). In addition , consider a Holistic evaluation for bowel infections and food areas (blood testing for food allergies is NOT reliable) and consider adding the herbal Boswellia 1000-2000 mg a day, as all of these can help the colitis. My book From Fatigued to Fantastic can also help you determine the cause of your fatigue, and a Holistic doctor (see http://www.ABIHM.org) can best guide you.
L&B
Dr. T
Jacob Teitelbaum, M.D. is one of the world's leading integrative medical authorities on fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. He is the lead author of eight research studies on their effective treatments, and has published numerous health & wellness books, including the bestseller on fibromyalgia From Fatigued to Fantastic! and The Fatigue and Fibromyalgia Solution. Dr. Teitelbaum is one of the most frequently quoted fibromyalgia experts in the world and appears often as a guest on news and talk shows nationwide including Good Morning America, The Dr. Oz Show, Oprah & Friends, CNN, and Fox News Health.
