Fatigue
Fatigue, pronounced as (fuh-TEEG), is a common symptom characterized by a pervasive sense of weariness, decreased energy, and a diminished capacity to perform mental or physical tasks. This sensation can manifest in both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) forms and can impact an individual's daily activities and overall quality of life.
Definition and Overview[edit | edit source]
Fatigue is more than just feeling drowsy or sleepy. It's an overwhelming and sustained sense of exhaustion that doesn't get relieved by rest. This diminished energy can limit a person's ability to engage in routine tasks, work, or recreational activities.
Causes of Fatigue[edit | edit source]
The feeling of fatigue can result from numerous causes, ranging from lifestyle factors to severe medical conditions.
Lifestyle Causes[edit | edit source]
- Lack of sleep
- Excessive physical activity or lack thereof
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Medications and treatments
- Consumption of alcohol or drugs
- Excessive stress
Medical Causes[edit | edit source]
- Anemia
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes
- Chronic pain conditions
- Sleep disorders like sleep apnea
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Chronic infections
Acute vs. Chronic Fatigue[edit | edit source]
While both forms of fatigue result in a decreased ability to function, their durations and sometimes causes can be different.
Acute Fatigue[edit | edit source]
- Typically lasts a short period (days to weeks).
- Often a result of lifestyle factors like lack of sleep, jet lag, or a significant increase in physical activity.
- Usually alleviated by addressing the root cause, such as getting more sleep or managing stress.
Chronic Fatigue[edit | edit source]
- Persistent and lasts for several months or longer.
- May arise without an apparent cause or can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
- Can be associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that can't be improved by bed rest.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing fatigue involves a comprehensive approach. Healthcare providers will:
- Take a detailed medical history.
- Ask about sleep patterns, daily activities, diet, and medications.
- Conduct physical examinations.
- Recommend blood tests or other diagnostic tests, depending on suspected underlying conditions.
Treatment and Management[edit | edit source]
Treatment for fatigue depends on its cause. Approaches may include:
- Lifestyle changes such as improved diet, exercise routines, and sleep habits.
- Psychological counseling or therapies for stress or mental health-related fatigue.
- Medications to treat underlying medical conditions.
- Physical therapies or alternative treatments.
See Also[edit | edit source]
Fatigue Resources | ||
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD