Fatigue - Vitality Clinic

Fatigue is a term used to describe an overall feeling of tiredness, lack of energy, and feeling weak or exhausted. It can have both physical and mental components. Key terms related to fatigue include:

• Physical fatigue: Feelings of bodily tiredness, soreness, lack of endurance, and feeling drained of physical strength/stamina.
• Mental fatigue: Feelings of mental exhaustion, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and reduced cognitive performance.
• Chronic fatigue: Ongoing, long-term sensations of exhaustion that persist for weeks or months. This contrasts with acute fatigue that comes on suddenly but only lasts for a short period.

What causes fatigue? There are many potential causes of both acute and chronic fatigue:

• Lack of good quality sleep
• Poor nutrition or dehydration
• Stress, anxiety, or depression
• Overexertion from physical labor or exercise
• Health conditions like anemia, thyroid issues, sleep apnea, etc.
• Infections from common illnesses
• Side effects of medications

How is fatigue treated? Strategies to help overcome fatigue include:

• Getting adequate rest and adopting good sleep hygiene habits
• Eating a balanced, nutritious diet and staying hydrated
• Getting moderate exercise
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques
• Treating any underlying health issues

In many cases, lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, exercise and stress management can significantly reduce fatigue. However, persistent or severe exhaustion should be evaluated by a doctor, as it may indicate another medical problem requiring treatment. Diagnostic tests and tailored treatment plans can help identify and address the root causes of debilitating chronic fatigue. In conclusion, fatigue is complex with many potential triggers. Tuning into the body's signals, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and seeking medical care when appropriate can help prevent or improve feelings of exhaustion.