Fatigue: Types, Causes, and Prevention

Fatigue is frequently described as a lack of both physical and emotional energy and motivation. It differs from sleepiness or drowsiness, which refers to the desire to sleep. 

Fatigue is a reaction to both physical and mental activities, often manifesting as feeling tired and sleepy. Typically, fatigue can be eased by rest or reducing activity.

Fatigue is a common symptom caused by various medical conditions or lifestyle choices. If rest and nutrition don't help, consult your doctor to determine the causes of fatigue and receive appropriate treatment.

Types of Fatigue

Fatigue is classified into three types: transient, cumulative, and circadian:

• Transient Fatigue: This type is acute fatigue caused by a lack of sleep or staying awake for an extended period within one or two days.
• Cumulative Fatigue: This results from a series of days with repeated mild sleep restriction or extended hours awake.
• Circadian Fatigue: This is defined as decreased performance during the night, particularly during an individual's window of circadian low (WOCL).

What Causes Fatigue?

Health Issues

Fatigue is a common symptom of clinical depression, which can stem from the depression itself or from other issues, such as insomnia. Following health issues can also cause fatigue:

• Anemia, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, and liver or kidney disease (metabolic/endocrine conditions).
• Infections such as influenza, tuberculosis, and malaria.
• Cardiovascular (heart) and pulmonary (lungs) diseases include congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), arrhythmias, and asthma.
• Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
• Sleep problems like sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome.
• Vitamin deficiencies, including a lack of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron.
• Other conditions include cancers and autoimmune/rheumatic diseases.
• Medications used to treat other medical conditions may also contribute to fatigue. Examples include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, some blood pressure medications, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and steroids.

Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle choices can lead to fatigue:

• Sleep Disturbances: Daytime fatigue can occur if you do not get enough sleep, sleep too much, or wake up during the night.
• Diet: Consuming high-carb, high-fat, or sugary foods, as well as drinking caffeinated beverages, can lead to energy crashes and worsening fatigue. Alcohol is a depressant that interferes with sleep, while cigarettes and caffeine can hinder your ability to fall and stay asleep.
• Inactivity: Physical activity is known to improve health and well-being, reduce stress, and boost energy levels. It also aids sleep quality and reduces fatigue during the day.
• Individual Factors: Personal or family illness or injury, having too many commitments, and financial difficulties can all contribute to feelings of fatigue.

Drugs and Medications

Certain drugs and medications can make you tired, including:

• Some antidepressants
• Anxiety medications
• Antihypertensives
• Statins
• Steroids
• Antihistamines
• Sedatives

Heart and Lung Conditions

Heart and lung conditions can impair blood flow, cause inflammation, and lead to fatigue. Examples include:

• Pneumonia
• Arrhythmias
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Valvular heart disease
• Coronary heart disease
• Congestive heart failure

Sleep Problems

The following sleep factors can contribute to fatigue:

• Working late or working shifts
• Jet lag
• Sleep apnea
• Narcolepsy
• Insomnia
• Reflux esophagitis

When to Visit a Doctor?

Fatigue can indicate a serious health problem. If you experience fatigue along with any of the following fatigue symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeat
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Muscle weakness
• Suicidal thoughts

Prevention of Fatigue

A variety of factors can cause fatigue as a symptom, so prevention may not always be straightforward. Recognizing fatigue early allows a person to seek medical attention and potentially receive an earlier diagnosis of the underlying cause.

Symptoms such as fatigue can appear gradually, making it difficult for individuals to recognize that there is a problem. An outside perspective from a friend or family member may be required to notice changes. 

Self-awareness of a gradual decline in body performance is often challenging as a person makes slight adjustments to complete daily activities.

By understanding the reasons for fatigue and being aware of its types and symptoms, individuals can take steps towards managing their fatigue effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions