Fatigue

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is a common symptom that is characterized by feelings of tiredness, weakness, and lack of energy. It can range from mild to severe and can negatively impact one's quality of life.

There are two main types of fatigue:

• Physical fatigue - This refers to muscle weakness and reduced performance during physical activity. It's typically caused by prolonged physical exertion.


• Mental fatigue - This manifests as difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, lack of motivation, and reduced alertness. It can be caused by prolonged cognitive activity.

Some common causes of fatigue include:

• Lack of quality sleep


• Stress


• Poor diet or nutrition


• Dehydration


• Anemia or other medical conditions

Fatigue can also be a side effect of many medications or a symptom of an underlying illness like cancer or autoimmune disorders. If fatigue persists for over 2 weeks without explanation, it's important to schedule an appointment with your doctor for an evaluation.

Some lifestyle changes and treatments that can help reduce fatigue include:

• Getting adequate rest and adopting good sleep hygiene habits


• Reducing stress through relaxation techniques


• Following a healthy, balanced diet


• Taking nutritional supplements like iron, vitamin D, or B12


• Treating any underlying medical issues

While occasional fatigue is normal, unrelenting exhaustion can greatly reduce one’s productivity and quality of life. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice if fatigue is a persistent problem, as identifying and addressing the root cause is key to finding relief. With an integrative treatment plan tailored to your needs, most causes of fatigue can be successfully managed.