What is fatigue?
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme physical or mental tiredness and lack of energy. It's a normal response to demands on our bodies, but can become a medical issue if it persists, gets worse, or starts impacting daily life.
There are two main types of fatigue:
- Physical fatigue affects the muscles and results from demanding physical activity, inadequate rest, or medical conditions. Symptoms include muscle weakness, slowed reflexes, and diminished endurance.
- Mental fatigue manifests in the brain and stems from intense mental exertion, stress, lack of quality sleep, or illnesses. Signs include reduced motivation, inability to concentrate, and mistakes due to lapses in memory or judgment.
What causes fatigue?
Many factors can contribute to physical and mental fatigue, including:
- Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality
- Illnesses like anemia, depression, thyroid disorders
- Side effects of medications
- Poor nutrition
- Dehydration
- Intense physical training
- Overwork and workplace stress
How can you manage fatigue?
If simple lifestyle changes don't help with persistent fatigue, see your doctor, as it may indicate an underlying condition. In general though, tips to reduce fatigue include:
- Getting enough high-quality sleep
- Staying hydrated and eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Getting regular exercise matched to your fitness level
- Setting limits at work and taking regular breaks
- Prioritizing relaxing activities and managing stress
- Avoiding alcohol and stimulants like caffeine late in the day
In conclusion, fatigue is the body and brain signaling their need for rest and recovery. Paying attention to fatigue levels and addressing contributing lifestyle factors can often provide natural relief. But significant or worsening fatigue should be evaluated by a doctor at Harmonize Health. Implementing sustainable changes to sleep, diet, activity levels, and stress management can help fend off fatigue before it sets in.