What is fatigue?

Fatigue is characterized by a complete lack of physical or mental energy and motivation. It’s not the same as feeling tired or drowsy after a long day. While sleepiness often accompanies fatigue, a good night’s sleep often isn’t enough to cure the condition.

In addition to a general lack of energy, you may also experience muscle aches, headaches, gastrointestinal problems, irritability, blurred vision, or moodiness if you have fatigue.

What causes fatigue?

While there are many reasons you may have fatigue, it’s often caused by lifestyle factors, health conditions, or mental health issues. The following conditions and lifestyle factors can contribute to your level of fatigue:

• Obesity
• Lack of exercise
• Stress
• Too much caffeine
• Illegal drugs
• Certain medications (antidepressants, sedatives, etc.)
• Thyroid conditions (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
• Anorexia
• Congestive heart failure
• Anemia
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Fibromyalgia
• Insomnia
• Kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
• Arthritis
• Liver disease

It’s normal to experience bouts of fatigue when you’re sick, overworked, or stressed. However, if fatigue is affecting your ability to work, go to school, or complete everyday tasks, then it’s time to talk to the Family Medical Home team about your symptoms.

When should I be worried about fatigue?

Fatigue almost always has an underlying cause. Before consulting with your doctor, try to make some lifestyle changes to see if they help improve your energy levels. Depending on your current lifestyle habits, you can:

• Exercise more frequently
• Try less intense workouts
• Practice healthier eating habits
• Identify and limit stress in your life
• Partake in yoga, meditation, or mindfulness
• Limit your caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco intake
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Get enough sleep

If your fatigue symptoms continue for more than two weeks, even after trying the above lifestyle changes, the Family Medical Home team can perform diagnostic tests to determine the root of your fatigue. Once they determine the underlying cause, they can design a treatment plan that improves your exhaustion. 

If you’re battling physical or mental fatigue, call Family Medical Home or schedule an appointment online with one of their San Antonio clinics to get started on a treatment plan.