Causes of Fatigue

Fatigue is an overwhelming feeling of tiredness, weakness and lack of energy. Fatigue is a common symptom that can indicate many physical and psychological conditions, but may also be an indicator of something serious. There are many causes of fatigue from stress to disease. Typically, if the causes of fatigue are serious illness or disease, other symptoms will accompany fatigue.

Common causes of fatigue include stress from daily life. If for example, you are working long hours, experiencing hectic schedules while trying to balance work and home, or are faced with an extra burden over a long period of time, fatigue can set in from physical and emotional exhaustion. Certain viruses, such as the flu, are also common causes of fatigue.

Fatigue can also be an indicator of more serious conditions including heart problems, immune system disorders, thyroid imbalance and other medical conditions. If you believe that you are experiencing extreme fatigue or there are no reasonable explanations, such as work or home life, you should talk to your doctor.

Depression can also be a cause of fatigue. Depression can set in over a period of time, especially when people are faced with stressful or overwhelming circumstances in life. Death or illness of a loved one, loss of livelihood, or personal illness can cause depression, which is frequently marked by fatigue. If you feel depressed or are experiencing fatigue for a period of two weeks or more, talk to your doctor.

Fatigue can often be relieved by changing lifestyle habits such as sleep patterns and diet and by reducing work hours and simplifying schedules. A person can feel fatigue if they deny themselves a good night’s rest over a period of time or if they eat poorly over an extended period of time. Examine your lifestyle and where change may be necessary to relieve this symptom. If adjustments in your life fail to relieve fatigue, talk to your doctor.