FATIGUE

In today's world, feeling tired is a common problem. Fatigue can be described as having a lack of energy or weariness. Individuals often seek medical help when fatigue interferes with their involvement with family, work, or leisure activities. There are many causes for fatigue. Some causes can be easily explained, while others require a thorough medical evaluation and further treatment. If fatigue lasts longer than 6 months and is associated with other symptoms, it may be chronic fatigue syndrome.

Some reasons for feeling fatigued include:

inadequate quality or quantity of sleep
over-exertion
poor nutrition
major life changes, such as changing jobs or moving
pregnancy
lack of exercise
obesity
hormone imbalances occurring with menopause or thyroid problems
diseases, such as diabetes, kidney disease, anemia, or cancer
new or chronic infections like TB or AIDS and
emotional problems, such as depression or anxiety

If you are feeling tired, make sure you are eating a nutritious diet, without a lot of sweets and fat. It is helpful to eat healthy foods, avoid over-eating, and get regular exercise every day. Sleeping at regular times each night for 6 to 8 hours is suggested. Avoid smoking, caffeine, alcohol, and drugs not prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is also important to drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day. Today, hectic schedules are not unusual. Make sure you use your time off to help relieve those stresses.

Some people will still feel tired despite these efforts. In that case, review your feelings and what you have tried with your provider. A careful history and a general checkup may be needed, including a physical exam, mammogram, and blood and urine tests. Tests to rule out infections, hormone problems, and diseases may also be necessary. If you are having shortness of breath or chest pain with exertion or at rest, see a provider. Call your provider for an appointment if you have lost weight rapidly when you were not trying to lose weight. Both situations could be very serious.

Your treatment will depend on what caused the problem. Sometimes a simple vitamin and mineral supplement is all that is needed. More severe or long-lasting problems may need other medication or therapies and regular follow-up visits with your provider.

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.

HIL File SYMP3277.rf2 VRS# 7173 Data Version 7.0