Fatigue

FATIGUE

Fatigue is defined as extreme tiredness. Severe fatigue makes it difficult for you to get up in the morning and get through your day. Many conditions and lifestyle factors can cause fatigue.

Causes

There are many possible causes of fatigue, including:

• Anemia (including iron deficiency anemia)
• Depression or grief
• Iron deficiency (without anemia)
• Medicines, such as sedatives or antidepressants
• Persistent pain
• Sleep disorders such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, or narcolepsy
• Underactive or overactive thyroid gland
• Use of alcohol or drugs, such as cocaine or narcotics, especially with regular use

Fatigue can also occur with the following illnesses:

• Addison disease (a disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones)
• Anorexia or other eating disorders
• Arthritis, mainly adult or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
• Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus
• Cancer
• COVID-19
• Diabetes
• Fibromyalgia
• Heart failure
• Infection, especially one that takes a long time to recover from or treat, such as bacterial endocarditis (infection of the heart muscle or valves), parasitic infections, hepatitis, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and mononucleosis
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Malnutrition

Lifestyle changes that can help reduce fatigue

A number of measures can help lessen fatigue caused by daily activities. To help boost your energy levels and overall health:

• Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated.
• Practice healthy eating habits.
• Exercise on a regular basis.
• Get enough sleep.
• Avoid known stressors.
• Avoid a work or social schedule that’s overly demanding.
• Take part in relaxing activities, such as yoga.
• Abstain from alcohol, tobacco, and other illicit drugs.