Fatigue Symptoms: Tired All the Time? Signs It May Be Serious

Types of Fatigue

Fatigue is a persistent feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. Understanding its type helps in evaluating potential physical or psychological triggers.

Primary Types

• Physical Fatigue: Inability to perform physical activities due to muscle exhaustion.
• Mental Fatigue: Reduced concentration, alertness, or motivation due to prolonged cognitive activity.
• Emotional Fatigue: Result of chronic stress or psychological distress.

Secondary Types

• Compassion Fatigue: Common in caregivers and healthcare workers, stemming from emotional overextension.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS): A complex condition with persistent, unexplained fatigue lasting more than six months.

Fatigue Common Causes

• Stress: High-stress levels can lead to fatigue.
• Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep affects energy levels.
• Poor Diet: Not consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Lifestyle Factors: A sedentary lifestyle or irregular eating habits contribute to fatigue.

Conditions that Cause Fatigue

If fatigue persists despite lifestyle changes, it may indicate an underlying medical condition. Seek medical advice if you experience overwhelming tiredness that disrupts daily life.

• Anaemia
• Diabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME)
• Depression and anxiety disorders
• Heart failure
• Chronic kidney or liver disease
• Sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, sleep apnoea)

Fatigue Related Symptoms

Fatigue rarely occurs alone and is often accompanied by other physical or psychological complaints.

• Brain fog
• Irritability
• Muscle weakness
• Sleep disturbances

When to See a Doctor?

Persistent or unexplained fatigue should prompt a medical evaluation to rule out serious underlying issues.

• Fatigue with chest pain or breathlessness
• Sudden onset with confusion or loss of consciousness
• Fatigue with high fever or signs of infection
• Fatigue lasting longer than two weeks
• Interference with daily activities or work
• Accompanied by unexplained weight changes or mood disturbances

Fatigue Diagnosis & Tests

A thorough assessment is necessary to determine the underlying cause of fatigue.

Physical Exams

• General examination, thyroid palpation, heart and lung auscultation

Lab Tests

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Thyroid Function Test (TFT)
• Blood glucose levels, kidney and liver panels

Imaging Tests

• Chest X-ray (if infection or heart failure suspected)
• Brain imaging (in case of neurological concerns)

Specialized Diagnostics

• Sleep studies (for suspected sleep apnoea)
• Mental health evaluation (for psychological fatigue)

Fatigue Treatment & Management

Effective management of fatigue requires addressing its root cause while supporting recovery through healthy habits.

Medications

• Iron supplements (for anaemia)
• Thyroid hormone therapy (for hypothyroidism)
• Antidepressants (for fatigue linked to mood disorders)

Therapies

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Exercise therapy for chronic fatigue
• Sleep hygiene counselling

Prevention Tips

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
• Eat balanced meals rich in nutrients
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques

Home Remedies

• Warm baths before bed
• Power naps (20-30 minutes)
• Herbal teas (e.g., chamomile, ashwagandha)

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular physical activity
• Limiting screen time before sleep
• Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake

Fatigue is a common but often overlooked symptom that may signal a deeper health issue. Timely evaluation and appropriate management are key to restoring energy and improving quality of life.