The commonly accepted definition of fatigue is an excessive feeling of tiredness or lack of energy that usually interferes with the affected person’s daily activities. In most cases, people tend to dismiss fatigue as tiredness.
However, it could be much more than that, depending on the underlying causes of fatigue. In the following blog, we will examine the factors that can lead to fatigue.
What are the causes of fatigue?
Whether temporary or chronic, fatigue can stem from various factors, including lifestyle choices, medical conditions, and medications. Here’s a closer look:
- Lifestyle
- Your food choices could be a cause of fatigue. Consuming a diet deficient in nutrients like iron and vitamins B and D may reduce the body’s energy levels. Consuming processed foods with unhealthy sugar excessively can cause sudden energy spikes followed by energy crashes. Junk food is also harder to digest, meaning the body takes a long time to derive energy from it.
- Insufficient or disturbed sleep may also interfere with your body’s ability to rest and restore its energy levels. Thus, anything less than 7 to 9 hours of sleep may trigger fatigue.
- Other common reasons for extreme fatigue may be excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine or even substance abuse.
- The kind of lifestyle you are leading also affects your energy state. Both over-exercising and a sedentary lifestyle can drain a body’s energy levels.
- Medical conditions
Fatigue can stem from the following health conditions:
- Sleep disorders like insomnia or narcolepsy
- Cardiovascular issues such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and heart disease
- Infections like COVID, influenza, pneumonia
- Mental issues like stress, burnout, depression, and anxiety
- Chronic conditions like cancer, kidney disease, or Type 2 diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis
- Weakness-inducing conditions like anaemia, bulimia, malnutrition, etc.
- Medicines
Some medications may cause fatigue as a side effect, such as:
- Antidepressants
- Blood pressure medications
- Antihistamines
- Steroids
- Beta-blockers
- Environmental Factors
In rare instances, the environment you are exposed to could also cause fatigue. For example, in higher altitudes with reduced oxygen levels, breathing may become more laboured. This can induce fatigue easily.
Similarly, dehydration in hot and humid environments can also cause fatigue.
Conclusion
Recognising the root causes of fatigue allows you to take proactive steps toward effective treatment, particularly by adopting healthier habits. Seeking professional help for a proper diagnosis can uncover any underlying medical conditions contributing to your exhaustion, ensuring timely intervention and better overall health.
A comprehensive health insurance plan can further support this process by covering medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and necessary treatments, allowing you to focus on recovery without financial concerns.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.