Overview
Everyone feels tired occasionally, but chronic fatigue persists for weeks or months and interferes with daily activities. It is a common symptom with many possible underlying causes.
Common Causes
Medical Conditions
- Anemia (iron deficiency, B12 deficiency)
- Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism)
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Depression and anxiety
- Autoimmune diseases
- Heart disease
- Liver or kidney disease
- Infections (mono, Lyme disease, COVID-19)
Lifestyle Factors
- Poor sleep habits
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor nutrition
- Dehydration
- Chronic stress
- Medication side effects
When to See a Doctor
- Fatigue lasting more than 2 weeks
- Interferes with daily activities
- Accompanied by weight changes
- With fever or night sweats
- Associated with severe mood changes
Diagnostic Tests for Fatigue
Blood Tests
- CBC (Complete Blood Count): Anemia, infection
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Hypothyroidism
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): Liver, kidney function
- Vitamin B12 and Folate: Deficiencies
- Vitamin D: Common deficiency
- Ferritin/Iron panel: Iron deficiency
- HbA1c: Diabetes screening
- ESR and CRP: Inflammation markers
Other Tests
- Sleep study: Sleep apnea
- Echocardiogram: Heart function
- HIV and hepatitis tests: Chronic infections
- Autoimmune panel: Lupus, RA, etc.
Treatment Approaches
Based on Cause
- Anemia: Iron supplements, diet changes
- Hypothyroidism: Synthroid (levothyroxine)
- Diabetes: Metformin, lifestyle changes
- Depression: Prozac, Zoloft, Lexapro, Wellbutrin
- Sleep apnea: CPAP machine
- Vitamin deficiencies: Supplements
Lifestyle Improvements
- Consistent sleep schedule (7-9 hours)
- Regular moderate exercise
- Balanced diet with adequate protein
- Stress reduction techniques
- Limit caffeine and alcohol
- Stay hydrated