Feeling Lost and Exhausted

Blueowl · Aug 12, 2024 at 02:47 PM

Hi everyone,

I'm reaching out because I'm feeling completely overwhelmed and I'm not sure what's going on with my body. I'm 45 and going through a pretty big life upheaval right now - new job, new city, and a nasty case of the flu thrown in for good measure.

On top of that, I've just experienced some incredibly hurtful family interactions that have left me feeling completely drained and isolated. It's been about a month since I've been able to work out regularly, and now I find myself falling asleep at the drop of a hat. I'm constantly thirsty, my body aches like I still have the flu, and I just feel completely exhausted.

I'm wondering if this could be perimenopause, or if I should see a doctor. Has anyone else experienced something similar? Any advice or support would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for reading.

Crazy Hitch · Aug 13, 2024 at 12:40 AM

Hey I didn't want to read and not reply. We're similar in age and whilst I don;t experience those symptoms, just wanted to say it's worth while getting a check up with your GP as you mentioned. They can do blood tests to check what's going on with your hormones and if appropriate perhaps prescribe you something.

Good luck!

SquarePegGuy · Aug 13, 2024 at 07:27 PM

Yes, @Blueowl, I've had a very gradual decline over many years like you describe. I think in my case it's due to Long-Haul Lyme disease.

Severe stress and emotional upset can trigger an inflammatory response. I think you should take a long break from regular workouts, which is just more stress, and get plenty of sleep.

I agree that you should visit your PCP to check on cortisol, thyroid, iron, plus the usual. If you can afford a Naturopathic doctor (or one is in your insurance network), get an opinion from him or her, too.

Discombobulated · Aug 15, 2024 at 03:57 AM

It sounds like burnout/post viral fatigue possibly? I think that would floor anyone.

That said, it’s possible at your age hormones are changing. I’m not sure there’s any definite test for that, you can get tests (I took one once) but apparently because hormones fluctuate they aren’t really accurate or reliable.

Have you tried a magnesium supplement? A lot of people say that can help with fatigue.

Blueberrybook · Aug 15, 2024 at 12:33 PM

I am 46. I definitely do not have the energy I had at 25 but I am not completely done in and am able to walk/jog most mornings.

I would actually go to your PCP first for a regular bloodwork appt. including your iron panel, B vitamins, and vitamin D b/c you are so tired; get a metabolic panel. Then, if all that checks out, head to your gynecologist. It's good to get regular checkups at the gyn. anyway. You can get your hormone levels checked if nothing turns up at the PCP.

That being said, it sounds like you have a TON of stress in your life right now. That would do anyone in. If I had that much going on, I'd just be wiped out. Stess can do a number on our bodies.

Blueowl · Aug 17, 2024 at 04:11 AM

Thank you everyone for your input.

I visited the doctor today; GP cannot entirely rule out COVID as this can last even though the tests were negative (could be another variant?). Nonetheless, GP strongly believes it is allergy-related. GP considers am nowhere near perimenopause. However... In the near future I am going to schedule all recommended preventative check ups, to include gyn.

Will keep you posted. Hoping for an improvement!

nonightowl · Aug 17, 2024 at 01:08 PM

SquarePegGuy, aren’t you a GUY?

Agree with a lot of posts except your doctor could be wrong about the perimenopause. I didn’t even know there was such a thing until I read it online somewhere. It can last years for some women. Average age is the 40’s but some women have earlier times than that.

Life changes and emotional trauma plus hormonal changes can wreak havoc that’s for sure. And I can definitely relate to the family leaving you isolated and drained. I guess I’d focus on self care as much as possible. A therapist may be able to help if you have the time, energy and money. But sometimes it’s more trouble than it’s worth.

Exercise is touted as a panacea but if I’m not motivated I get nothing from it. It’s a chore lately but I try to stay consistent. I’ll just do a light workout in that case. Otherwise if I skip a day it makes it that much harder next time.

Yes keep us posted.

———
Sent from my iPhone

SquarePegGuy · Aug 18, 2024 at 01:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nonightowl

SquarePegGuy, aren’t you a GUY?

Yes, ooops, I'm so sorry I didn't realize what forum this was in!

I'll do that Flashy Thing on myself and forget everything I've seen here.

nonightowl · Aug 20, 2024 at 12:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SquarePegGuy

Yes, ooops, I'm so sorry I didn't realize what forum this was in!

I'll do that Flashy Thing on myself and forget everything I've seen here.

@SquarePegGuy, Well since this site isn’t busy I’ll cut you some slack and at least you’re a nice guy.

I don’t know what Flashy Thing is? Can you explain?

I do look these things up but find multiple meanings so it’s more confusing.

———
Sent from my iPhone

SquarePegGuy · Aug 22, 2024 at 08:05 PM

I thought "Flashy Thing" was from "Men In Black"

It was used to erase the memories of people who encountered aliens.

I can't find a good video for it, sorry

Blueowl · Aug 30, 2024 at 12:03 PM

Here's an update. I'm doing much, much better! Perhaps the doctor was right...

Switched antihistamines and although it took several days, I started to feel a difference.

As soon as I'm done with the 30 pack... I'm tempted to stop it to confirm for real

Blueowl · Sep 11, 2024 at 02:52 PM

Another update… I stopped taking the antihistamine and although I have some moments. I’m fine without it.

Went to the gynecologist…. One who specializes in HRT. HRT is not for me, but she mentioned perimenopause can start as early as 33. She recommended chaste berry for 3 months. If I notice improvements, to keep taking it. Otherwise, to drop it but to take it for at least 3 months. Today is day 1.

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Crazy Hitch ɘvlovƎ Member Since Nov 2013 Location: Australia Posts: 19,280 (SuperPoster!) 11 15k hugs given	Aug 13, 2024 at 12:40 AM #2 Hey I didn't want to read and not reply. We're similar in age and whilst I don;t experience those symptoms, just wanted to say it's worth while getting a check up with your GP as you mentioned. They can do blood tests to check what's going on with your hormones and if appropriate perhaps prescribe you something. Good luck!
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SquarePegGuy Grand Member Member Since Mar 2020 Location: Northeastern USA Posts: 819 4 130 hugs given	Aug 22, 2024 at 08:05 PM #10 I thought "Flashy Thing" was from "Men In Black" It was used to erase the memories of people who encountered aliens. I can't find a good video for it, sorry __________________ Major Depressive Disorder; Sleep Apnea; possibly on the spectrum Nuvigil 50mg; Effexor 37.5mg Wellbutrin 150mg; meds for blood pressure & cholesterol
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Blueowl Member Member Since Jul 2022 Location: West Posts: 442 2 149 hugs given	Aug 30, 2024 at 12:03 PM #11 Here's an update. I'm doing much, much better! Perhaps the doctor was right... Switched antihistamines and although it took several days, I started to feel a difference. As soon as I'm done with the 30 pack... I'm tempted to stop it to confirm for real
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