What is Chronic Fatigue?
Chronic fatigue is a health problem in which a person constantly feels tired and sluggish. It is defined as a physical or psychological inability to find enough energy to perform daily activities. This fatigue may not be relieved by short periods of rest and may persist for a long time. The types of chronic fatigue are categorized into three main groups: mental, physical and chronic fatigue.
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue
Chronic fatigue symptoms can often be confused with normal fatigue symptoms. However, in order for this condition to be defined as chronic fatigue, the symptoms must persist for at least 6 months. Symptoms of chronic fatigue can be:
Impaired Concentration: Difficulty focusing and concentrating.
Forgetfulness: Experiencing memory problems and forgetfulness.
Muscle Pain: Widespread muscle aches in specific areas.
Sore Throat: Chronic sore throat and irritation.
Joint Pain: Joint pain and tenderness.
Restless Sleep Disorders: Insomnia or feeling unrested from sleep.
Energy Loss: Constant feeling of lack of energy.
Nausea: Nausea and digestive problems.
Depressed Mood: Negative attitudes towards oneself, work and life, restlessness, depressed mood.
Decline in Daily Activities: Poor performance in daily work.
Hyperactivity: Sudden bursts of energy and hyperactivity.
Speech Difficulties: Impaired ability to speak.
Blurred Consciousness: Loss of mental clarity.
Dizziness: Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up.
Causes of Chronic Fatigue
The causes of chronic fatigue can vary depending on a person’s age, lifestyle and general health. Here are some factors that can cause chronic fatigue:
Depression and Anxiety: Depression is a common cause of chronic fatigue. Mental health problems can also affect physical health.
Work Stress: Busy work schedules and work stress can lead to chronic fatigue.
Anemia: Insufficient amounts of red blood cells in the body can cause a lack of energy.
Mineral and Vitamin Deficiencies: Vitamin D and B12 deficiency in particular can be a cause of fatigue.
Viral Diseases such as HIV and EBV: Some viral infections can cause chronic fatigue.
Rheumatic Diseases: Such illnesses can cause a feeling of fatigue.
Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: Diabetes and insulin resistance can also cause fatigue.
Above Kidney Gland Problems: Improper functioning of the adrenal glands is one of the causes of fatigue.
Liver and Kidney Diseases: Problems with these organs can also cause chronic fatigue.
Chronic Bowel Diseases: Chronic bowel diseases, such as colitis, can contribute to fatigue.
Treatment of Chronic Fatigue
When treating chronic fatigue, the patient’s history and possible precipitating factors are first taken into account. To detect other underlying conditions, doctors may often order tests such as complete blood tests, urinalysis, measurement of liver enzymes and thyroid function.
Treatment may involve changes to a person’s lifestyle. Regular sleeping habits, exercise and a healthy diet can be part of these changes. For some patients, therapy sessions with a team of specialists can be helpful. If there is another disease underlying chronic fatigue, it should also be treated.
If symptoms of chronic fatigue persist for more than six months, it is a serious health threat and should be treated immediately.
