| Fatigue.net |
Fatigue is the general feeling of tiredness people feel when they are overworked physically or mentally. Fatigue is variously known as lethargy, weariness and exhaustion. It is usually accompanied by the desire to sleep. Studies indicate that approximately 20% Americans suffer from excessive fatigue.
Depending on causative factors, people may experience physical fatigue, mental fatigue, or both. Physical fatigue influences the ability to use muscles as a result of which affected individuals find it difficult to move their body even to perform simple tasks.
Mental fatigue on the other hand may not cause physical tiredness but hampers the ability to resolve mentally challenging issues. Making even simple decisions becomes time consuming.
Some people may even experience dizziness, vertigo and/or breathlessness when they get tired.
Lack of energy is the primary cause of fatigue. Energy levels may dwindle due to several factors including long hours at work, frustrating job, tough boss, children at home, too much excitement, emotional distress, poor relationships, substance abuse, eating disorders, hyperactivity, boredom, disease, common cold, certain medication, chronic ailments, malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies.
More specifically, cardiac problems, insufficient sleep, obesity, menopause, pregnancy, old age, abnormal blood sugar levels, asthma, hyper- or hypothyroidism, ulcers, infections, cancer, anemia, depression, unusual blood pressure, anxiety, arthritis, hepatitis, tuberculosis, urinary tract infections and stroke are some common fatigue causing ailments.
Persistent fatigue or sudden bouts of tiredness because of no apparent reason may be a symptom of a serious condition affecting the body. These individuals might be suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and should therefore consult a doctor at the earliest. Doctors evaluate the situation, recommend necessary tests and go through test results to determine the actual cause of lethargy.
Based on the diagnosis, the doctor may recommend medication and/or other suitable measures. For instance, fatigue due to nutritional deficiency can be treated by taking healthy diet and nutritional supplements. Iron supplements may be recommended to anemic individuals. Similarly, any infection triggered fatigue may necessitate use of antibiotics.
Resting usually relieves the feeling of being tired. Having a sound sleep makes people wake up fresh ready to perform at their optimal best. This works for those who get tired because of usual upheavals in life.
For those who feel fatigue due to diseases, extreme emotional disturbances, nutritional deficiencies and other factors, may need medication.
Switching to a healthy lifestyle involving exercises, outdoor activities, mentally stimulating tasks, development of hobbies, having nutritious diet, nurturing strong relationships, and inculcating a satisfying job keeps serious fatigue at bay. Quitting smoking, limiting the amount of alcohol and caffeine consumed, meditation and practicing relaxation techniques also have a positive impact. Follow a routine with enough sleep so the body relaxes naturally.
Take care to avoid transformation of general fatigue into persistent tiredness which can in turn cause depression. Take measures to relax soon after realizing the occurrence of fatigue. Do something you like to do.
Getting relived of fatigue is a low cost activity requiring behavioral changes. Expenses may become a concern if general fatigue continues to become CSF necessitating consultation with a doctor.