What is fatigue?
Fatigue is a common symptom that refers to an overall feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. It can manifest both physically and mentally. There are several key types and causes of fatigue:
- Physical fatigue - When muscles tire from overuse and feel weak or heavy. Causes include:
- Overexertion from exercise, labor, or physical activity
- Muscle strains or injuries
- Lifestyle factors like lack of sleep, poor diet, etc.
- Mental fatigue - Difficulty concentrating, loss of motivation, or "brain fog." Causes include:
- Stress, anxiety, or depression
- Poor sleep habits
- Working for long hours without breaks
- Chronic fatigue - Ongoing exhaustion that persists for over 6 months. Linked to health issues like:
- Anemia - lack of healthy red blood cells
- Thyroid disorders
- Chronic illnesses
- Inflammatory conditions
There are also situational causes of fatigue like recovery from surgery, jet lag from traveling, side effects of medications, etc.
Managing fatigue typically involves identifying and addressing the root causes:
- Allow time for adequate rest and sleep
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
- Follow a nutritious diet and stay hydrated
- Get checked for any underlying illness if fatigue persists
While fatigue itself is not a condition, experiencing ongoing exhaustion can greatly impact quality of life. It helps to be aware of common triggers that may drain your energy. Paying attention to your body's signals and allowing time for renewal activities can help overcome fatigue or prevent it from building up. Consider reaching out for extra support if fatigue drags on and lifestyle measures aren't helping. Contact the professionals at Thrive Hormone Therapy if excessive fatigue begins impacting daily function for a more thorough evaluation.