Commonly categorised as a lack of energy, fatigue is an extreme nature of tiredness that arises out of physical or mental work. This lethargy is often, caused by both physical and psychological energy expenditure. Physical fatigue is, caused due to weakness in muscles and insufficient energy in the body. Mental fatigue, on the other hand is a resultant of stress, too much focus and lack of sleep. Physical fatigue and mental fatigue can be a cause and effect of each other as well.
As per the surveys conducted around the world, fatigue is, considered the most common ailment in all ages of people. The global survey rates state that 10% of world population is suffering from fatigue at every point of time. Females tend to expend more energy and are hence the major victims of fatigue, rather than males, owing to the biological strength. It also advocates that a high percentage of people with fatigue is comprised of people with mental lethargy, rather than physical problems.
Some common resultant reactions in a healthy body that suffers from fatigue are drowsiness, sleepiness and disinterest. As opposed to the cliché fatigue has many symptoms, they are:
- Flatulence
- Soreness in muscles
- Apathy
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Lesser focus/ concentration
- Impairment in hand-to-eye coordination
- Decrease in the normal power of memorizing
- Blurred vision
- Slow response to stimulus
- Indecisiveness
- Mood Swings
- Slurry speech
- Poor immunity
Some of the main causes of fatigue are
- Psychological: Stress, depression, disorders, irritation, mood swings and distress;
- Biological: metabolic disorders like kidney diseases , diabetes, anaemia and liver disorder;
- Drugs/ Medicines: antidepressants, steroids, antihypertensives, antihistamines, sedatives, medication withdrawal and anti-anxiety drugs;
- Heart or Lung Problems: Arrhythmias, COPD, asthma, pneumonia, Coronary heart disease, congestive heart disease and valvular heart disease;
- Sleep issues: Jet lag, late night working, over-working, sleep apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, reflux oesophagitis and sleepiness;
- Infections: HIV, flu, hepatitis, TB, malaria and tropical diseases;
- Deficiencies: vitamins, minerals and poisoning or overdose (example: caffeine)
- Diseases and treatment: Surgery, cancer, arthritis, immune impairment, blood loss, systemic lupus, radiotherapy and Chemotherapy;
- Chronic pain or dehydration
- Overweight/ Underweight
Diagnosis For Fatigue Is, Done By Conducting The Following
- Analyzing fatigue qualities
- Medical history
- Current state of health
- Lifestyle
- X-rays, Urine Tests, Blood Tests and other Imaging scans of the body
- Counselling or session with a psychiatrist
Treatment Options For Fatigue Are
- Supplement medicines
- Medical care
- Yoga
- Healthy diet
- Healthy water intake
- Sleep
Fatigue does not restrict to the incessant weakness and weariness, but is also a right indicator of lack of energy as well as motivation. Always consult your doctor if you have one or more symptoms as stated above.