Health Blurbs

Fatigue is a feeling of weariness, tiredness, or lack of energy. It is different from the need to sleep in that is accompanied by the lack of energy and motivation. However, drowsiness and a feeling of indifference or not caring about what happens may be symptoms of fatigue.

Fatigue can be a normal and important response to physical exertion, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. However, it can also be a nonspecific sign of a more serious psychological or physical disorder.

Fatigue is generally relieved by getting enough sleep, consuming a healthy diet and a reducing stress in your environment.

Beyond the the lack of sleep, poor diet and stress commonly causing fatigue there are many other possible physical and psychological causes. Some common causes to consider and take affirmative action when possible are:

• pneumonia
  
• heart disease
  
• persistent pain
• hypothyroidism
• hyperthyroidism
• food intolerance
• caffeine overload
• depression or grief
• urinary tract infections
• anemia (including iron deficiency anemia)
• an allergy that leads to hay fever or asthma
• use of alcohol or illegal drugs, especially with regular use
• sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, narcolepsy

Fatigue and tiredness may also accompany illnesses or disease. Also, certain medications may cause drowsiness or fatigue, including antihistamines for allergies, blood pressure medicines, sleeping pills, steroids, and diuretics.

Another possibility is you may be suffering from chronic fatigue which is generally a lack of energy with flu-like symptoms that lasts for 6 months or more.

Some obvious active treatment cures and prevention of your fatigue calls for appropriate lifestyle adjustments by way of:

• exercise regularly
• drink plenty of water
• eat a healthy, well-balanced diet
• maintain a reasonable work and personal schedule
• get adequate, regular and consistent sleep each night
• change stressful circumstances ~ switch jobs, take a vacation or deal directly with problems in a relationship

Learn or experiment with ways to relax. Try alternative methods like:

• Reiki
• yoga
• Pilates
• meditation
• acupuncture
• energy therapy

Stimulants (including caffeine) are NOT effective treatments for fatigue because they may actually worsen the problem when stopped. Sedatives also tend to worsen fatigue in the long run.

It is important to take action in response to your first noticeable sign of fatigue. Causes and cures are generally found in your current lifestyle. Your healthy future depends on your willingness and commitment to make you a priority.

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