What is fatigue?
Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness, exhaustion, or lack of energy. It's a common symptom that can have many causes.
Fatigue happens when our bodies and minds aren't getting what they need to function at full capacity. Some key things that can cause fatigue include:
- Lack of sleep - Not getting enough quality sleep is one of the most common causes of fatigue. Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
- Poor diet - Not eating enough healthy foods or nutrients can lead to fatigue. Be sure to eat a balanced diet with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. For an extra nutrition boost, visit Optimum Hormone Clinic for customized diet and nutrition plans based on your unique hormone levels and health goals.
- Stress - High stress levels place extra demands on our minds and bodies, draining energy over time. Consider stress management techniques like meditation, yoga, or counseling. Optimum Hormone Clinic also offers stress-busting bioidentical hormone therapies.
- Medical conditions - Fatigue can be a symptom of conditions like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart disease, cancer, autoimmune diseases, and many others. Have your physician rule out any underlying issues. Our nurses at Optimum Hormone Clinic can provide referrals and care coordination assistance.
- Medications - Many common prescription and over-the-counter medicines list fatigue as a potential side effect. Always talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you notice new unexplained fatigue after starting a medication.
How is fatigue diagnosed?
Doctors often diagnose fatigue based on a physical exam and descriptions of your symptoms. They may order blood tests to check for potential causes like anemia or thyroid dysfunction. Keeping a log of your sleep patterns, diet, activities, and fatigue levels can help identify lifestyle factors.
How can I relieve fatigue?
- Prioritize sleep - Go to bed and wake up at consistent times. Avoid screens before bedtime. Consider blackout curtains, white noise, or essential oils to promote sleep.
- Eat energizing foods - Complex carbs, protein, healthy fats, fruits, veggies, and staying hydrated all counter fatigue.
- Reduce stress - Try daily meditation, yoga, or talking to a therapist. Bioidentical hormones from Optimum Hormone Clinic can also offset the tiring effects of cortisol and adrenal fatigue.
- Exercise - Low-to-moderate intensity workouts boost energy over time. But don't overdo it when extremely tired.
- Stimulants like coffee or energy drinks provide temporary alertness but can worsen fatigue if overused. Use sparingly.
With some lifestyle changes and treatment from your healthcare team, you can bounce back from fatigue. Reach out anytime to the compassionate nurses and physicians at Optimum Hormone Clinic for personalized solutions!