Fatigue

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's medical weight loss NYC, sleep center NYC
Philadelphia medical weight loss and Philadelphia sleep clinics

Fatigue
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Tiredness, exhaustion, lack of energy
Complications	Depression, anxiety, reduced quality of life
Onset	Can be acute or chronic
Duration	Varies; can be short-term or long-term
Types	N/A
Causes	Sleep deprivation, stress, medical conditions such as anemia, hypothyroidism, chronic fatigue syndrome
Risks	Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, mental health disorders
Diagnosis	Clinical assessment, blood tests, sleep studies
Differential diagnosis	Depression, sleep apnea, anemia, hypothyroidism
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication
Medication	Antidepressants, stimulants
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	Rarely directly fatal

Fatigue

Diagram illustrating the timeframe of post-exertional malaise from daily activities.

Fatigue is a common symptom experienced by individuals across various conditions and is characterized by a persistent feeling of tiredness or exhaustion. It can be both a physical and mental state, affecting a person's ability to perform daily activities effectively.

Causes of Fatigue

Fatigue can result from numerous factors, including:

• Sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea.
• Chronic illnesses like chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.
• Mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
• Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive stress.
• Medications that have fatigue as a side effect.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of fatigue is a persistent feeling of tiredness that does not improve with rest. Other symptoms may include:

• Difficulty concentrating or cognitive impairment.
• Muscle weakness or soreness.
• Headaches.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Irritability or mood changes.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing fatigue involves a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying cause. This may include:

• A detailed medical history and physical examination.
• Blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid function, and other potential causes.
• Sleep studies to identify sleep disorders.
• Psychological assessments to evaluate mental health conditions.

Management

Managing fatigue typically involves addressing the underlying cause. General strategies include:

• Improving sleep hygiene and ensuring adequate rest.
• Engaging in regular physical activity tailored to the individual's capabilities.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques and counseling.
• Adjusting medications if they contribute to fatigue.
• Nutritional support and dietary changes.

See also

• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Sleep disorders
• Depression
• Fibromyalgia