7 Health Conditions That You Need To Know Cause Fatigue
Fatigue is something many of us may face from time to time. Unfortunately, it can be a serious issue, both in the cause of fatigue and the effects of it. For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 1 in 25 drivers have fallen asleep behind the wheel in the past 30 days.
Many reasons people are so tired are medical, and until they can get to the bottom of these conditions, it’s nearly impossible for someone to resolve their fatigue. But, of course, there are also lifestyle factors that aren’t necessarily medical conditions that can cause fatigue, including lack of physical activity and lack of sleep, as well as some medications and unhealthy eating habits. The following are some conditions that most commonly contribute to fatigue beyond general lifestyle factors.
1. Obesity
Obesity is something impacting the majority of Americans. You may be more likely to experience daytime sleepiness when you’re heavier. Along with depression, obesity was one of the causes of fatigue and daytime tiredness. Many factors may link to fatigue, but one specific one is the increased likelihood of struggling with sleep apnea if you have a higher weight.
So, it’s quite reasonable to try to reduce obesity first. Some doctors who prescribe Wegovy in LA, an injectable medication that has shown promising results in helping individuals with obesity. Wegovy is also known as a medication used for weight management that helps individuals to reach their weight loss goals by controlling their appetite.
2. Depression
When you’re depressed, there are multiple reasons you might feel fatigued. For example, it may take you longer to fall asleep so you will get less of it. It may also be more challenging for you to get into REM sleep, as people with depression frequently wake up at night.
When your body is battling itself, you are likely to feel tired. Plus, you can become mentally drained because of the unhealthy way your brain deals with your thoughts.
3. Anxiety
Like depression, anxiety is a mental health disorder that can significantly affect physical health. Specific anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobias, and social anxiety disorders. In addition, actual physical health conditions are linked to anxiety, including heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, respiratory infections, chronic pain, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Anxiety causes fatigue in a few ways. First, you may frequently experience spikes in adrenaline, and as these levels go down, it can make you feel a crash. Anxiety can also cause muscle tension, making you feel tired at the end of the day. Additionally, you might have challenges sleeping well at night.
4. Cancer
You should never jump to the conclusion that because you are tired, you have cancer; however, the two can be linked. Fatigue can be because of the disease itself, but it can also be a side effect of treatments.
One reason cancer can cause fatigue is because the body releases cytokines. There are also changes in hormone levels. Tumor cells might even steal nutrition from healthy cells, and some types of cancer can increase your body’s energy needs and damage your organs.
5. Thyroid Problems
Fatigue can stem from thyroid problems, including both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. When you have too much thyroid hormone, it’s called hyperthyroidism, and too little is hypothyroidism. Your thyroid makes hormones that impact how your body uses energy and controls your metabolism. Therefore, when these hormones are off-balance, you will experience tiredness.
6. Anemia
If you have an iron deficiency, you may feel tired often. This condition is called anemia. Women with heavy periods and pregnant women are especially likely to be affected by anemia, but it can happen to anyone.
Other reasons for anemia include intestinal issues and stomach issues. Both of these affect the absorption of iron and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
7. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, which can affect energy levels. IBD causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to fatigue. The symptoms of IBD can also keep you up at night or cause you to wake up earlier. Fatigue can also be a side effect of medicines you might take for this condition.
Suppose you are struggling with constant fatigue and aren’t sure why you might want to speak with your doctor. There could be a medical reason for it, and treatment available depending on the cause. If you are concerned and want to make a doctor’s appointment ASAP, we suggest trying My Virtual Doctor. This site offers telehealth services wherever and whenever you are for an affordable price! Stay healthy and listen to your body. Your fatigue might be telling you something important.
