What is fatigue?
Fatigue refers to a feeling of extreme tiredness, lack of energy, or exhaustion.
There are two main types of fatigue:
- Physical fatigue - occurs when there is damage to muscles and/or accumulation of byproducts like lactic acid due to vigorous physical activity or exercise. This can cause feelings of temporary muscle weakness or soreness after exercise like running, lifting weights, or playing sports. Rest and recovery can help relieve physical fatigue.
- Mental fatigue - involves difficulty concentrating, slow thinking, impaired memory, or mood changes due to prolonged mental exertion. People commonly experience symptoms of mental fatigue after intense focus, long periods of decision making, chronic work stress, or sleep deprivation. Managing work-life balance is important for reducing mental fatigue.
In many cases, fatigue that does not get better with rest or sleep could indicate a more serious underlying medical condition, especially if it is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms. If you experience unexplained fatigue lasting more than two weeks, please consider scheduling an appointment with New Beginnings HRT Clinic(/) to discuss potential hormonal imbalances that could require hormone therapy or other medical treatment.
Some key contributing factors to fatigue include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Working long hours under high stress conditions
- Mood disorders like depression or anxiety
- Anemia or iron deficiency
- Thyroid disorders
- Viral infections like mononucleosis
- Heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Cancer
Managing fatigue typically involves identifying and addressing any underlying causes, along with making healthy lifestyle choices:
- Get enough high-quality sleep
- Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet
- Reduce and cope with stress
- Get regular exercise appropriate for your fitness level
- Set boundaries around work and make time to rest
- Treat any mental health issues
- Take medications or hormonal supplements as needed for medical conditions
With the right self-care and medical care if warranted, most fatigue can be greatly improved or resolved. Contact New Beginnings HRT Clinic(/) to learn about hormone testing and potential treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Our compassionate providers partner with you on your path to more energy and better health!