Recognizing Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of weariness, tiredness, or lack of energy.

Common Causes of Fatigue
There are many possible physical and psychological causes of fatigue. Some of the more common are:

Fatigue is different from drowsiness. In general, drowsiness is feeling the need to sleep, while fatigue is a lack of energy and motivation. Drowsiness and apathy (a feeling of indifference or not caring about what happens) can be symptoms of fatigue.

Fatigue can be a normal and important response to physical exertion, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. However, it can also be a nonspecific sign of a more serious psychological or physical disorder. When fatigue is not relieved by enough sleep, good nutrition, or a low-stress environment, it should be evaluated by your doctor. Because fatigue is a common complaint, sometimes a potentially serious cause may be overlooked.

The pattern of fatigue may help your doctor determine its underlying cause. For example, if you wake up in the morning rested but rapidly develop fatigue with activity, you may have an ongoing physical condition like an underactive thyroid. On the other hand, if you wake up with a low level of energy and have fatigue that lasts throughout the day, you may be depressed or suffer from adrenal dysfunction.

• Anemia (including iron deficiency anemia)
• Sleep disorders like ongoing insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, or narcolepsy
• Hormone imbalance (adrenal dysfunction)
• Ongoing pain
• An allergy that leads to hay fever or asthma
• An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
• Adrenal Fatigue
• Use of alcohol or illegal drugs like cocaine, especially with regular use
• Depression or grief