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What is Fatigue?
Fatigue is one of the most
common health complaints, yet it is one of the most difficult to define.
This condition - which may also be referred to as exhaustion, tiredness, or
weakness - is characterized by a lack of energy, making it difficult to
participate in normal activities. It can be caused by a multitude of
factors, both physical and
mental, making it somewhat difficult to formulate
an accurate diagnosis.
Symptoms of Fatigue
Fatigue is more than just feeling tired, and
sleep does not always make it
go away. The following symptoms are commonly seen by patients who complain
of fatigue:
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Weakness or
lack of energy;
-
Extreme tiredness or
exhaustion;
-
Palpitations;
-
Shortness of breath;
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Dizziness;
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Fainting, or feeling faint;
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Shortness of
breath;
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Lack of motivation to
perform normal tasks.
Possible Causes of Fatigue
The list of physiological and emotional disorders that are associated with
fatigue is extremely lengthy; the following conditions are a few of the most
common causes of fatigue:
1. Anemia: Anemia is
a leading cause of fatigue, particularly in women. Females in their
reproductive years who regularly lose blood through menstruation or
childbirth are highly prone to anemia, or insufficient levels of hemoglobin,
the iron-bearing protein found in red blood cells.
Iron is responsible for
carrying oxygen in the blood; low levels of iron means that the cells of the
body do not get enough oxygen, resulting in fatigue.
2. Hypothyroidism: The thyroid is a small, yet essential organ which
plays a large role in controlling
metabolism, the rate at which we
manufacture and use energy. Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, can
cause us to feel run-down and sluggish.
3. Caffeine Overload: Many of us rely on coffee,
sodas, or other
caffeinated substances to give us the burst of energy we need to keep
functioning throughout the day. However, in many cases, too much caffeine
can have the opposite effect, making us feel worn out and tired.
4. Sleep Apnea: If you get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every
night, yet you still wake up feeling tired and run down, you may have an
issue with sleep apnea. Although this condition most often occurs in people
who are overweight, others may experience this common problem as well.
People with sleep apnea have a tendency to stop breathing periodically while
they are asleep; this causes a brief awakening, which may not even register
consciously, but it can leave you feeling exhausted when you wake up in the
morning.
5. Infections: When your immune system is kicked into overdrive to
counteract an infection, your energy resources become depleted and you may
feel tired or wiped out. Most of us have fought off a bacterial infection or
the flu and recognize the sensation of being overwhelmingly tired.
6. Medications: Many over the counter and prescription
medications
can cause fatigue; excessive consumption of alcohol and recreational drug
use may also cause certain individuals to experience weakness or fatigue
symptoms.
7.
Fibromyalgia: This debilitating disease is characterized by chronic
fatigue, severe muscle and joint pain, and tender areas of the body that are
painful to the touch. If you experience fatigue accompanied by other
symptoms of fibromyalgia, you should talk to your doctor to find out about
how to treat and manage your condition.
8.
Stress: Stress is a part of our daily lives, and it is no
secret that it
takes a toll on our bodies as well as our emotional well-being. Constant
stress can cause a multitude of adverse symptoms, including fatigue.
9.
Heart Disease: In most cases of fatigue, there is a less dramatic
explanation. But if you feel constantly tired and unable to perform tasks
that once were easy, combined with shortness of breath or heart
palpitations, you should see your doctor for a full physical examination to
determine whether heart disease is to blame.
How Fatigue can be Treated
In many cases, fatigue can be treated through medication and
lifestyle
changes, depending on the underlying cause. Iron supplements and thyroid
medications can correct physiological issues, and antibiotics can help us
fight off infection.
If your fatigue is due to sleep apnea or other weight-related issues, you
may need to make some changes to your diet and adopt a regular
exercise
program. For some people, reducing fatigue can be as simple as cutting back
on the amount of caffeine consumed every day.
If fatigue is caused by a medication, you should return to normal once you
have stopped taking the drug. In some cases, just getting rid of some of the
stress in your life can make a big difference in your energy levels.
If chronic fatigue is impairing your ability to function normally, it is in
your best interest to make an appointment to talk with your doctor about the
symptoms you are experiencing. He or she can evaluate your symptoms and
determine the cause of your fatigue; once the root problem has been
identified, your doctor can work with you to develop an appropriate
treatment plan.
The causes of muscle fatigue during exercise
You must seek approval from your doctor
before starting any new diet.
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