Health & Fitness
Edward-Elmhurst Health: Causes of fatigue
Consider these tips to promote healthy sleep habits and prevent fatigue.
Fatigue is a lingering feeling of tiredness. It can cause physical, mental or social impairment and can leave people feeling drained.
Often, fatigue is caused by a lack of sleep. Adults should ensure they get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Avoiding naps longer than 30 minutes during the day can lead to better sleep at night.
Fatigue could be a sign of a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea. Those who are fatigued on a regular basis and notice other symptoms of sleep apnea, such as snoring, may want to talk to a doctor about a sleep study.
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Other chronic health conditions, such as allergies, diabetes or cancer, can leave people fatigued. Fatigue may also be one of the side effects of certain medications or treatments, such as chemotherapy, used to treat chronic health conditions. Depression and anxiety can also cause fatigue.
To help promote healthy sleep habits and prevent fatigue, consider:
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- Exercising. Adopting a regular exercise routine can help promote healthy sleep patterns. The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of exercise five days a week.
- Limiting beverages with alcohol or caffeine. Too much alcohol or caffeine can interfere with your sleep.
- Talk to your doctor about your medications. If medications are interfering with sleep or are causing fatigue, talk to a doctor to see if they need to be adjusted.
- If allergies are the problem, avoid the offending allergen and talk to a doctor about effective ways to manage your allergies.
- Adopt a healthy diet. Empty calories in junk food do not provide lasting energy and can leave people feeling tired once the sugar rush wears off.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking is linked to many health problems. It can also affect breathing and leave people feeling drained.
- Ask for help. Those who are stressed, feeling overwhelmed or grieving the loss of a loved one may feel fatigued. Talking to a therapist can help people deal with emotions and improve your mood.
Learn more at www.eehealth.org/services/sleep.
