Fatigue

Overview

Fatigue is an entirely normal condition with which everybody is familiar. For example, you can be tired in the evening after a hectic day, feeling weak and listless and lacking in concentration. If, however, fatigue becomes a chronic condition, also during the day, this could be a sign of a physical or psychological disease and should be treated by a doctor. See also "chronic fatigue"

Symptoms

• State of weakness and listlessness
• Reduced attentiveness/concentration
• Reduced performance capacity

Causes and treatment

Causes

• Lack of sleep
• Unsatisfied need for sleep
• Physical exertion
• Mental exertion (e.g. studying, working in the office)
• Causes of constant fatigue: see "chronic fatigue"

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Physical examination
• Blood test

Possible therapies

• Treatment for an underlying disease, if any
• Lifestyle changes (see “What I can do myself”)

What can I do myself?

Lifestyle changes

• Changes to sleeping habits
  • E.g. sleeping long enough
  • Sleep hygiene, see "sleep disorders"
• A balanced and varied diet
• Avoidance of nicotine and alcohol
• Regular exercise and sport
• Combating stress through regular periods of rest and relaxation

When to see a doctor?

• Persistent fatigue
• Severe fatigue that occurs suddenly and frequently
• Involuntary weight loss
• Problems in maintaining your usual performance (physical and mental)
• Night sweats
• Breathing problems
• Fainting spells
• Hopelessness, mental exhaustion

Synonyms

fatigue, tiredness