Fatigue

The Impact of Tiredness and Fatigue on the Body and Mind

Watching a video or seeking information online about tiredness is an all too common online search.  Many of us have experienced many of these common symptoms of chronic weariness:

  • Chronic sleepiness
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Sore or aching muscles
  • Muscle weakness
  • Slowed reflexes and responses
  • Impaired decision-making and judgement
  • Moodiness, such as irritability

Over 43% of Americans admit that they are too tired to function at work. Perhaps one of the most startling statistics found by research is that 97% of Americans say they have at least one of the leading nine risks factors for fatigue. These factors include; working at night or early in the morning, working long shifts without regular work breaks, working more than 50 hours each week, and enduring long commutes. Seventy-six percent of workers say they feel tired at work, 53% feel less productive, and 44% have trouble focusing.

So, what is the difference between tiredness and fatigue?

Medically speaking, tiredness happens to everyone — it is an expected feeling after certain activities or at the end of the day. Usually, you know why you’re tired, and a good night’s sleep solves the problem. Fatigue is a daily lack of energy; unusual or excessive whole-body tiredness not relieved by sleep.

What is normal fatigue?

If you do not get seven to eight hours of sleep, expect to be tired and fatigued. Over exerting yourself can also lead to fatigue. Be sure to allow for proper rest after working or playing too hard. It is normal to get worn out in this way and become fatigued. Most of the time fatigue can be traced to one or more of your habits or routines, particularly lack of exercise. It is also commonly related to depression. On occasion, fatigue is a symptom of other underlying conditions that may require treatment.

Surprising ways to get more energy, including stress relief and healthy eating.

Research suggests that some of these common shifts in behaviors can help reduce fatigue. They sound easy to do but often require some support for ease of implementation.  They can include:

  • Stress control. Stress-induced emotions consume huge amounts of energy.
  • Lighten your load. One of the main causes of fatigue is overwork.
  • Exercise. Easy to plan but hard to implement.
  • Avoid smoking. It is easy to want to give up, but hard to do.
  • Eat a balanced diet for energy. Sometimes a little guidance is needed.

The Hidden Suspect: Vitamin Deficiency

Research has shown that being tired all the time can also be a sign of a vitamin deficiency. This could include low levels of vitamin D, vitamin B-12, iron, magnesium, or potassium. A routine blood test can help identify a deficiency. We can help with an assessment, plans on how to supplement, and balance your diet. 

If you would like to understand your fatigue symptoms further, we recommend an in-depth consultation. We will listen to your case, do a physical examination, and evaluate your nutrition and stress patterns. We will show you how to optimize your lifestyle to increase energy, and live with less stress. You can achieve this without the use of medications that can actually fuel the fatigue cycle.

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