Before we begin: Are you tired? Find out about some of the common and uncommon causes of fatigue and how to help yourself.
This tutorial walks you through everything you need to know about fatigue. We explain it in plain language, step by step, so whether you are a student, a patient, or simply curious, you will come away with a solid understanding.
We cover what it is, why it matters, how it is diagnosed, and what you can do about it. Key facts are called out along the way.
What is fatigue? Fatigue is a feeling of weariness, tiredness, or lack of energy. It can interfere with your usual daily activities. Fatigue can be a normal response to physical activity, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. But sometimes it can be a sign of a mental or physical condition. If you have been feeling tired for weeks, contact your health care provider. They can help you find out what’s causing your fatigue and recommend ways to relieve it.
What causes fatigue? Fatigue itself is not a disease; it’s a symptom. It can have many different causes, including pregnancy and various medical problems, treatments, and lifestyle habits such as:
Medical problems:
Chronic (long-lasting) diseases such as diabetes, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and heart, liver, kidney and thyroid diseases
Untreated pain and diseases like fibromyalgia
Anemia
Infections
Parkinson's disease
Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
Recent stroke
Mental disorders such as depression and anxiety
Treatments:
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and bone marrow transplants
Recovering from major surgery
Taking certain medicines, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and medicines for nausea and pain
Lifestyle habits:
Not getting enough sleep
Staying up too late
Drinking too much alcohol
Substance use
Having too much caffeine (which can keep you from getting a good night's sleep)
Getting too little or too much exercise
Overwhelming fatigue is part of a disorder called myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The fatigue caused by this disorder is different from a tired feeling that goes away after you rest. Instead, the fatigue in ME/CFS lasts a long time, does not get better with rest, and limits your ability to do ordinary daily activities.
What can I do to manage fatigue? If you’ve had fatigue that does not get better after several weeks, call your provider. They will ask questions about your sleep, daily activities, appetite, and exercise. They will likely do a physical exam and order lab tests. Once they decide on a diagnosis, they can tell you what treatments might help.
You can also make some lifestyle changes to feel less tired:
Get regular physical activity
Improve your sleep habits
Stop smoking (if you smoke), since smoking is linked to many diseases that can cause fatigue
Manage stress
Eat a healthy diet and avoid alcohol
It also may be helpful for you to keep a fatigue diary. This can help you find patterns throughout the day, such as when you feel more tired and when you have more energy. It can also help you plan for activities that may give you more energy.
NIH: National Institute on Aging
Also known as: Tiredness, Weariness.
Related topics: Tiredness, Weariness.
Categories: Symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Understanding fatigue is an important part of taking charge of your health. Here is what to remember:
- Know the signs — Recognizing early symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
- Talk to your provider — If you have concerns or a family history of this condition, bring it up at your next checkup.
- Stay informed — Medical knowledge evolves. Keep learning and asking questions.
- You are not alone — Many people deal with this condition. Support groups and educational resources can help.