What is fatique?

Answer 1

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is the feeling of extreme tiredness or weakness that can make it difficult for you

to perform ordinary tasks. Fatigue affects everyone differently. You may feel very tired

and all you want to do is sleep. Fatigue may also come along with pain and sometimes

can make you feel that you have little control over your life. Chronic fatigue syndrome

(CFS) is a long-term fatigue that may occur with other symptoms, such as recurrent sore

throats, muscle pain, multi-joint pain, tender lymph nodes, new patterns of headaches,

and complaints such as impaired memory or concentration.

What causes fatigue?

You may have physical fatigue as the result of a long day of hard work or a hectic

schedule. In contrast, emotional fatigue is usually more striking in the morning and less

draining as the day progresses.

Some causes of physical fatigue are:

· Not getting enough sleep

· Chronic disease and other health problems

· Poor physical condition, lack of exercise

· Obesity

· Environmental causes, which can cause stress such as extremes in temperature or

dealing with traffic and long waits.

· Side effects of certain over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines or

prescription drugs such as blood pressure medications.

Some causes of emotional fatigue include:

· Depression or anxiety

· Overextending yourself or trying to hide your emotions from others

· A major life change

· Workplace stress

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your symptoms and ask about your daily routine, work habits,

and environmental conditions. He or she will give you a physical exam and may want

you to have basic blood tests to rule out diseases that may cause fatigue. If you are under

a lot of emotional stress or experience recurrent anxiety or depression, your doctor may

diagnose fatigue caused by psychological disturbances.

How can I prevent fatigue?

· Allow yourself more time to sleep or rest, particularly if you are working longer

hours or doing more physical work.

· If you are overweight, begin a weight loss program after a physical exam by your

doctor.

· Walk or exercise regularly 3 or 4 times a week for at least 30 minutes

· Take vitamin and mineral supplements as recommended by your health care

provider.