Fatigue

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is a condition of tiredness or weakness that is physical or mental, or both.

How does it occur?

Fatigue can happen for many reasons, but it is especially likely when you are having a lot of physical or mental stress. Fatigue may be caused by:

an illness
hormone problems
overexertion
poor physical condition
lack of exercise
not enough sleep
overweight
poor diet
stress
emotional or psychological problems, especially depression
some medicines.

Fatigue can also be a symptom of a heart attack, especially in women. It usually is new and severe fatigue that starts a day or two or just a few hours before a heart attack. Sometimes the fatigue starts a couple of weeks before a heart attack. Because new, unexplained fatigue can mean a heart attack is about to happen, it should be checked by your health care provider.

Overwhelming fatigue that lasts for at least 6 months and interferes with your daily life may be caused by a medical problem called chronic fatigue syndrome.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of fatigue are:

weakness
tiredness
indifference
lack of energy.

How is it diagnosed?

Your health care provider will review your symptoms and ask about your daily routine, work habits, environment, and emotional well-being. Your provider will examine you. You may have blood tests to check for diseases that can cause fatigue, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, heart disease, lung disease, and anemia.

How is it treated?

The treatment depends on the cause. If fatigue is a symptom of another condition or illness, that condition or disease will be the focus of treatment. If the cause is emotional or psychological, your health care provider may refer you to a therapist for counseling.

If new fatigue is caused by worsening heart health, prompt recognition and treatment of heart disease may prevent a heart attack.

How long do the effects last?

The effects will last as long as the cause of the symptoms exists.

How can I take care of myself?

Get enough rest and sleep.
Eat a healthy diet. If you are overweight, begin a weight loss program after checking with your health care provider.
Walk or exercise according to your health care provider's recommendations. Exercise can increase your energy and improve your mood.
See a counselor if you are having emotional problems.
Learn to use deep breathing techniques, visualization, and meditation to relieve stress.
Allow yourself time to relax and do things you enjoy.
Meet new people and develop new interests.

How can I prevent fatigue?

If you are working longer hours or doing more physical work, allow yourself more time to sleep or rest.
If your work activity has become more strenuous, take breaks during the day to sit and rest.
Ask your provider about taking vitamin and mineral supplements.
Consider eating smaller meals 4 to 6 times a day if that seems to help you maintain a higher energy level. Eat more complex carbohydrates such as rice and pasta, and eat less fat. Avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar. Avoid overeating.
Stop smoking.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol. and other drugs.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File SYM5056F.HTM Release 9.0/2006