Fatigue can be a detrimental condition that leaves you feeling less capable of managing the daily needs of your life. It can be difficult to make good decisions when you are too exhausted to really think. Here, we cover five common causes of fatigue so that you can be aware of what could be contributing to feelings of tiredness and a loss of motivation.

Stress

Feeling stressed can negatively impact your energy levels and cause you to feel fatigued. Research shows that stress can be problematic for your health, sleep quality, and immune system. There are many different strategies you can use to relieve stress, including acupuncture, self-care, meditation, and exercise. While self-care can sometimes get a bad reputation, it is one of the most important steps you can take to preserve your long-term health and vitality. It can be difficult to feel energized when stress weighs you down.

Poor Diet

Poor diet is one of the most common reasons for exhaustion. Combined with a lack of regular cardiovascular exercise, eating a diet full of processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates can make anyone feel sluggish. As you evaluate the reasons behind your fatigue, consider whether or not you are eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Even short periods of bad eating can have an impact on your energy levels. Before you schedule an appointment with your physician, check to see if incorporating healthier foods into your diet and penciling in regular exercise sessions help.

Prescription Medications

Some prescription medications can cause fatigue. Even if a specific medication is not known for causing fatigue, its reaction to other medications that you may be taking could cause fatigue. If you have been prescribed a new medication, be sure to discuss any possible side effects with your pharmacist. They will be able to let you know if fatigue is a common symptom of the medications that you are taking. If a prescription medication is found to be the cause of your fatigue, it might be worth asking your doctor if an alternative is available.

Depression

In the clinical sense, depression is often thought of as a chemical imbalance that some prescription medications can help to ease the symptoms of. Depression can leave you feeling that you don’t have energy. Situational depression brought on by grief, loss, or other stressors can also make you feel tired. Dealing with complex emotions is an exhausting process in and of itself.

Illness

Chronic and acute illnesses are other common reasons for fatigue. During flu season, for instance, many people experience fatigue after they have contracted a strain of the flu. However, it doesn’t take exposure to the influenza virus to feel crummy during an illness. A mild case of a sore throat can also leave you tired. Certain conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, are well-known for causing fatigue.

Ready to Get Started?

At Thumos Health Center, we specialize in acupuncture and Chinese herbology, optimizing the natural balance of body and mind that promotes self-healing. It can also reduce fatigue. Call us today at (310) 927-2792 to schedule an appointment. Find a location near you or contact us today with any questions you may have.