Fatigue is a common symptom that can have many causes. It refers to an overall feeling of tiredness, lack of energy, and feeling weak or exhausted. There are two main types of fatigue:
- Physical fatigue occurs due to prolonged physical activity, inadequate rest, or medical conditions. Physical fatigue leads to muscle weakness and reduced performance.
- Mental fatigue relates to brain function and mood. It may occur even without physical exertion and makes it hard to concentrate, be productive, or think clearly.
Some common causes of fatigue include:
- Sleep deprivation - Not getting enough high-quality sleep can lead to next-day fatigue. Most adults need 7-9 hours per night.
- Poor diet - Nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, blood sugar swings, etc. can zap your energy levels. Eat a balanced diet with fruits, veggies, lean proteins and complex carbs.
- Sedentary lifestyle - Inactivity and too much sitting drain energy reserves. Regular exercise is energizing and improves fitness.
- Chronic stress - Ongoing stress triggers hormones like cortisol that wear you down over time. Relaxation techniques help manage stress.
- Medical conditions - Fatigue often results from illnesses like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart disease, cancer, autoimmune diseases, etc. See your doctor if fatigue persists.
- Medication side effects - Many common meds like blood pressure pills, allergy meds and antidepressants list fatigue as a side effect. Ask your pharmacist.
- Mental health issues - Conditions like depression and anxiety frequently cause mental and physical exhaustion. Therapy and medication can help.
How to combat fatigue:
- Stick to a regular sleep-wake cycle and wind down before bed.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with lean protein, complex carbs, and fruits/veggies. Stay hydrated.
- Exercise regularly - even light activity provides an energy boost.
- Reduce stress via meditation, yoga, socializing, nature walks, etc.
- Consult your doctor if fatigue persists or impairs daily function. Underlying illness may be the culprit.
- Review medications with your doctor/pharmacist - adjusting timing or dosage may help.
- Treat any mental health conditions, like depression or anxiety. Counseling and/or meds could help.
If you're dealing with ongoing fatigue or exhaustion, the hormone experts at
Human Antiaging Center can help identify any hormonal imbalances contributing to your symptoms. Hormones like cortisol, testosterone, estrogen and thyroid hormones all impact energy levels when they are too high or low. The experienced physicians at Human Antiaging Center use advanced testing to pinpoint hormone deficiencies and customize treatment plans using bioidentical hormone therapy, supplements, and lifestyle changes to help patients regain their energy, focus and zest for life! Contact Human Antiaging Center today for a consultation.
In summary,
fatigue is a complex symptom with numerous potential causes. Lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, exercise and stress reduction can help, but persistent fatigue should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out any underlying illnesses. Hormonal imbalances often contribute as well, something the specialists at
Human Antiaging Center can identify and treat. Regaining your normal energy levels is possible with proper diagnosis and treatment! Let Human Antiaging Center help you feel like yourself again.