What is fatigue chronic tiredness?
Fatigue, also known as chronic tiredness, is a common and debilitating symptom that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. It is characterized by a persistent feeling of exhaustion, weakness, and lack of energy, which can be physical, mental, or a combination of both. Fatigue can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, or it can be a primary condition, also known as system exertion intolerance disease [5]. In this article, we will explore the causes of fatigue, the latest research on the topic, and provide practical tips for managing and reducing fatigue.
What does the research say?
Recent research has shed light on the complex mechanisms underlying fatigue. Nociplastic pain, a type of pain that is not caused by tissue damage or nerve damage, has been linked to fatigue, sleep disturbances, and other symptoms [1]. Central sensitization, a process in which the central nervous system becomes more sensitive to pain and other stimuli, may also contribute to fatigue [2]. Additionally, studies have shown that a pro-inflammatory diet can contribute to fatigue, while an anti-inflammatory diet may help alleviate it [3]. Fatigue is also a common symptom in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with approximately 70% of patients reporting fatigue [4]. Furthermore, post-COVID syndrome, also known as long COVID, can cause persistent fatigue, among other symptoms [6]. Mental fatigue, which can be caused by prolonged mental effort, has also been shown to decrease productivity and cognitive performance [8].
Practical tips you can try
While fatigue can be a challenging symptom to manage, there are several practical tips that you can try to reduce your fatigue levels. Firstly, maintaining a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help alleviate fatigue [3]. Regular physical activity, such as walking or yoga, can also help improve energy levels and reduce fatigue [4]. Getting enough sleep, aiming for 7-8 hours per night, is also essential for managing fatigue. Additionally, stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help manage mental fatigue [8]. If you have CKD, working with your healthcare provider to manage your condition and prevent complications can also help reduce fatigue [4]. Finally, if you are experiencing persistent or severe fatigue, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing persistent or severe fatigue that is interfering with your daily life, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. Fatigue can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as anemia, diabetes, or hypothyroidism, which requires medical attention. Additionally, if you are experiencing other symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty concentrating, you should seek medical attention immediately. Your healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of your fatigue and develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms.
References
[1] Fitzcharles Mary-Ann, Cohen Steven P, Clauw Daniel J, Littlejohn Geoffrey, Usui Chie. Nociplastic pain: towards an understanding of prevalent pain conditions. Lancet (London, England). 2021; PMID: 34062144 [2] Volcheck Mary M, Graham Stephanie M, Fleming Kevin C, Mohabbat Arya B, Luedtke Connie A. Central sensitization, chronic pain, and other symptoms: Better understanding, better management. Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine. 2023; PMID: 37011956 [3] Haß Ulrike, Herpich Catrin, Norman Kristina. Anti-Inflammatory Diets and Fatigue. Nutrients. 2019; PMID: 31574939 [4] Gregg L Parker, Bossola Maurizio, Ostrosky-Frid Mauricio, Hedayati S Susan. Fatigue in CKD: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment. Clinical journal of the American Society of Nephrology : CJASN. 2021; PMID: 33858827 [5] Dukes Jason C, Chakan Matthew, Mills Aaron, Marcaurd Maurice. Approach to Fatigue: Best Practice. The Medical clinics of North America. 2021; PMID: 33246515 [6] Hellwig Sabine, Domschke Katharina. [Post-COVID syndrome-Focus fatigue]. Der Nervenarzt. 2022; PMID: 35606656 [7] Kohli Rahil, Chaturvedi Shruti. Epidemiology and Clinical Manifestations of Immune Thrombocytopenia. Hamostaseologie. 2019; PMID: 30868551 [8] Kunasegaran Kaveena, Ismail Ahamed Miflah Hussain, Ramasamy Shamala, Gnanou Justin Vijay, Caszo Brinnell Annette. Understanding mental fatigue and its detection: a comparative analysis of assessments and tools. PeerJ. 2023; PMID: 37637168
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.