Reasons for Fatigue

Somebody that is fatigued feels weak or lacks energy. Fatigue is not just a drowsy feeling that occurs from a lack of sleep. Someone that is fatigued might also feel lethargy or malaise. If someone feels fatigued just for a day or two then it could be something as minor as a common cold. If the fatigue lasts longer than a week then there is probably a more serious problem.

  1. Anemia

    • One of the most common reasons for fatigue is anemia. Anemia is a blood disorder that causes either the number of red blood cells to be too low or the amount of hemoglobin is low. When anemia occurs the heart will be working overtime to try to increase the amount of red blood cells and hemoglobin. The heart being overworked will make the rest of the body feel fatigued. In addition to fatigue, anemia can cause dizziness, headaches, chest pain and irregular heartbeat.

    Diabetes

    • Diabetes is another common condition that causes fatigue. The body has a hormone called insulin whose function is to convert glucose into energy. In Type 1 diabetes there is a lack of insulin. The lack of insulin means the glucose won't be converted into energy and the person will lack energy. In Type 2 diabetes the body is resistant to insulin and once again the insulin will not convert glucose into energy.

    Sleep Disorders

    • Fatigue is not just a drowsy feeling that occurs from missing a night of sleep but if somebody suffers from a sleeping disorder and is constantly lacking sleep then that could result in fatigue. When somebody sleeps he not only rests but the body restores energy spent the previous day. Interruptions during sleep will cause the body to feel fatigued. If you are feeling fatigued all the time then you might want to be checked for a sleeping disorder. The most common sleeping disorders are insomnia, narcolepsy, sleep apnea, restless-leg disorder and circadian rhythm disorder.

    Leukemia

    • Most types of cancer will cause fatigue but leukemia is particularly known for causing fatigue. Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. When somebody has leukemia there is an overproduction of white blood cells. The extra number of white blood cells crowds the red blood cells and won't allow the red blood cells to do their work. The main function of the red blood cells is to send oxygen to the blood. A lack of oxygen in the blood will make the body fatigued.

    Eating Disorders

    • It is very important to eat properly. Someone who doesn't eat enough food, eats too much food or doesn't eat the right kind of food isn't going to get all the nutrients necessary. Food is the body's main source of energy and not eating will cause the body to be fatigued. Rather than not eating or fasting, try to just eat healthier.