Fatigue is a common condition characterized by a persistent feeling of tiredness or exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest. It can affect your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, making it challenging to perform daily activities. Various factors cause fatigue, and we can categorize them into physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors.

We all experience tiredness throughout our life for various reasons. Knowing some of the most common explanations is important. Also, understanding when it is imperative to seek medical care for ongoing or unusual fatigue is crucial.

Common Reasons You Feel Tired:

  • Not getting enough sleep
  • Vitamin and/or nutrient deficiencies
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Depression
  • Burnout or Overworking
  • Too much exercise
  • Poor diet
  • Too much caffeine
  • Not enough hydration
  • Too much time on devices
  • A sedentary lifestyle
  • Certain medications or supplements
  • Too many alcoholic beverages
  • Illness
  • Pregnancy
  • Too much sleep

Common Medical Conditions That Make You Tired:

A medical condition can be something that the patient is aware they have. In other cases, the patient may not be aware. We refer to this as an underlying medical condition. It requires proper testing and diagnosis from a medical professional to determine and provide treatment.

Here are some of the most common medical conditions that make patients tired:

  • Overweight or obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Heart disease
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Vitamin and/or nutrient deficiencies
  • Sleep apnea
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Anemia
  • Menopause
  • Kidney disease
  • Multiple sclerosis

Please note this is not a complete list of medical conditions that can cause fatigue.

If you are experiencing unusual, persistent, or out of the ordinary fatigue, contact your doctor for an assessment of your symptoms.

Tips to Help Manage and Reduce Fatigue:

Many things can help manage your fatigue, whether it is from medical or non-medical conditions.

Always talk to your provider before making changes to your diet, medications, supplements, or exercise routine for medical conditions.

  • Regular exercise
  • Balanced diet
  • Stay hydrated
  • Prioritize sleep
  • Manage stress
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • Frequent breaks
  • Evaluate medications
  • Address underlying health issues
  • Engage in social activities

Implementing these strategies can help alleviate feelings of fatigue and improve overall well-being. If fatigue persists, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.