Fatigue

Fatigue is a natural state that signals the body's need for rest and recovery. It can result from lack of sleep, stress, or illnesses. Long-term conditions such as chronic pain, exhaustion, anxiety, depression, and prolonged sleep deprivation can be associated with persistent fatigue. Sometimes, fatigue may stem from physical conditions like iron deficiency or hypothyroidism, which require further investigation, often through laboratory tests.

Contents:

• Symptoms of Fatigue
• Causes of Fatigue
• Treatment
• Self-Care Instructions
• When to seek medical care?
• How Can Dokport Help?

Symptoms of Fatigue

Fatigue manifests as a lack of energy and difficulty concentrating on daily tasks. You may feel irritable, experience mood swings, and have reduced stress tolerance. Weakness can also make it harder to manage everyday life.

Common symptoms of fatigue:

• Weakness and exhaustion
• Memory problems
• Difficulty falling asleep or waking up during the night
• Irritability or feelings of depression
• Trouble concentrating

Severe or prolonged fatigue may also be accompanied by symptoms such as weight loss, loss of appetite, or a general feeling of illness.

Causes of Fatigue

Fatigue can stem from simple factors such as sleep deprivation, stress, or an irregular lifestyle. However, persistent fatigue may indicate an underlying medical condition, such as anemia, hormonal imbalances, sleep apnea, or other chronic illnesses.

Common lifestyle-related causes of fatigue:

• Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality
• Insufficient physical activity
• Excessive use of alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine
• Excessive screen time late at night

Physical causes:

• Infections or pain
• Respiratory issues like asthma or sleep apnea
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as low iron or vitamin D
• Chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease

Psychological causes:

• Stress without adequate recovery
• Depression and anxiety
• Other mental health conditions

Treatment

The treatment of fatigue depends on its underlying cause. Lifestyle changes, such as regular sleep and exercise, can help with mild fatigue. If symptoms suggest an underlying medical condition, a doctor may recommend further investigations, such as laboratory tests. In some cases, cognitive behavioral therapy or similar approaches can be effective in managing fatigue and symptoms of depression.

Self-Care Instructions

Tips for managing fatigue:

• Eat regularly and maintain a balanced diet.
• Exercise daily and spend time outdoors in natural light.
• Reduce stress levels.
• Prioritize sleep—aim for regular sleep in a calm environment.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and screen time late at night.

When to seek medical care?

Consult a doctor if your fatigue is persistent or significantly impacts your daily life. Unexplained fatigue accompanied by feelings of illness, weight loss, or reduced appetite is also a good reason to seek medical advice.

How Can Dokport Help?

Dokport's remote doctor appointment can provide an initial assessment of fatigue. However, the treatment of fatigue often requires more detailed evaluations that are better suited for on-site appointments.

Expert: Dr. Anna Sipilä, MD, Associate Professor of Experimental Internal Medicine