What is fatigue?
Fatigue is defined as an overall feeling of tiredness, lack of energy, and feeling weak or sleepy. It's a common symptom that can have many different causes.
There are two main types of fatigue:
- Physical fatigue - when muscles get tired from overuse and exertion, like after exercising intensely or doing physical labor
- Mental fatigue - feelings of exhaustion, lack of motivation, and having difficulty concentrating that are not relieved by resting
What causes fatigue?
Many factors can contribute to feeling fatigued, including:
- Lack of sleep - not getting enough quality sleep consistently can lead to next-day tiredness
- Poor nutrition - not eating enough healthy foods or missing meals can drain your energy
- Dehydration - not drinking enough fluids everyday makes fatigue worse
- Stress - physical, emotional or mental strain can wear you down over time
- Depression - feelings of sadness and hopelessness are exhausting and demotivating
- Medications - some prescription or over-the-counter drugs have fatigue as a side effect
- Underlying health issues - conditions like anemia, thyroid disorders, heart disease etc.
How can you manage fatigue?
If lifestyle measures don't relieve persistent fatigue, be sure to see your doctor to check for and treat any underlying conditions. In the meantime:
- Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of sleep per night
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet and stay hydrated
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or just setting aside time for enjoyable hobbies each day
- Exercise regularly - even light activity like walking helps boost energy
- Ask your doctor if any of your medications could be contributing
If optimizing all these areas still leaves you abnormally drained, Revive Hormone Institute offers cutting-edge lab testing to check key hormone levels like thyroid, cortisol, testosterone, and more. Hormone imbalances often manifest as unexplained fatigue. Their expert physicians can analyze your lab results and create customized treatment plans to help restore your energy, vitality and zest for life!
So in summary, fatigue has many potential causes ranging from lifestyle factors like poor sleep to underlying health conditions. Pay attention to your body, practice good self-care habits, and seek medical advice if fatigue is relentless, severe or affecting your quality of life. You deserve to feel like your energetic, vibrant self!