Fatigue

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Fatigue, pronounced as (fuh-TEEG), is a common symptom characterized by a pervasive sense of weariness, decreased energy, and a diminished capacity to perform mental or physical tasks. This sensation can manifest in both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) forms and can impact an individual's daily activities and overall quality of life.

Definition and Overview[edit | edit source]

Fatigue is more than just feeling drowsy or sleepy. It's an overwhelming and sustained sense of exhaustion that doesn't get relieved by rest. This diminished energy can limit a person's ability to engage in routine tasks, work, or recreational activities.

Causes of Fatigue[edit | edit source]

The feeling of fatigue can result from numerous causes, ranging from lifestyle factors to severe medical conditions.

Lifestyle Causes[edit | edit source]

  • Lack of sleep
  • Excessive physical activity or lack thereof
  • Unhealthy eating habits
  • Medications and treatments
  • Consumption of alcohol or drugs
  • Excessive stress

Medical Causes[edit | edit source]

Acute vs. Chronic Fatigue[edit | edit source]

While both forms of fatigue result in a decreased ability to function, their durations and sometimes causes can be different.

Acute Fatigue[edit | edit source]

  • Typically lasts a short period (days to weeks).
  • Often a result of lifestyle factors like lack of sleep, jet lag, or a significant increase in physical activity.
  • Usually alleviated by addressing the root cause, such as getting more sleep or managing stress.

Chronic Fatigue[edit | edit source]

  • Persistent and lasts for several months or longer.
  • May arise without an apparent cause or can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
  • Can be associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that can't be improved by bed rest.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosing fatigue involves a comprehensive approach. Healthcare providers will:

  • Take a detailed medical history.
  • Ask about sleep patterns, daily activities, diet, and medications.
  • Conduct physical examinations.
  • Recommend blood tests or other diagnostic tests, depending on suspected underlying conditions.

Treatment and Management[edit | edit source]

Treatment for fatigue depends on its cause. Approaches may include:

  • Lifestyle changes such as improved diet, exercise routines, and sleep habits.
  • Psychological counseling or therapies for stress or mental health-related fatigue.
  • Medications to treat underlying medical conditions.
  • Physical therapies or alternative treatments.

See Also[edit | edit source]




Fatigue Resources
Wikipedia
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD