Fatigue: More Than Just Feeling Tired?

Everyone feels tired, every now and then; sometimes we just need rest. After a good night’s rest, most people feel refreshed and ready for a new day. If you feel chronically tired or tired after a good night’s sleep, it is time to seek medical advice. March is National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month, a great time to understand the the habits and underlying medical problems associated with chronic tiredness.

Can Illness Cause Fatigue?

Fatigue itself is not an illness or a disease. However, fatigue can be a symptom of an illness or disease. Speaking to a healthcare provider about fatigue could lead to helpful solutions for underlying medical problems. Medical problems and medical treatments can add to fatigue:

· Taking medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines and medicine for nausea or pain

· Having medical treatments like chemotherapy and radiation

· Recovering from major surgery

Can my emotions or personal habits cause fatigue?

Do you often worry about the future, your health, your caregiver or loved ones? Emotional worries can take a toll on seniors’ energy levels. Fatigue can be linked to many emotions including:

· Anxiety

· Depression

· Grief from loss of family, friends or loved ones

· Stress

· Feeling that you’ve lost control

Like feelings of emotion, lifestyle habits can take a toll on seniors’ energy levels. Some lifestyle habits that can lead to fatigue:

· Staying up too late

· Consuming too much caffeine

· Drinking too much alcohol

· Eating junk food

· Boredom

Can I kick fatigue on my own?

There are many lifestyle changes that can help you get the most out of life. Try these suggestions to see if your fatigue decreases:

· Keep a fatigue diary, pinpointing the times of day or situations that make you feel tired.

· Exercise regularly. Moderate exercise may improve your appetite, energy and outlook on life.

· Try to avoid long naps that can leave you feeling groggy and unable to sleep at night.

· Stop smoking. Smoking is linked to many health problems including cancer, heart disease and breathing problems that can drain your energy.

A Special Kind of Fatigue

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a special condition that typically involves fatigue that lasts six months or longer, and is not related to other medical conditions. The symptoms of CFS can include muscle pain, memory problems, headaches and tender lymph nodes. CFS typically occurs in people who are middle-aged and can affect women more than men. CFS can last for years and can change every part of your life.

If you have felt tired for several weeks, call your healthcare provider. A doctor can assess your sleep, daily activity, appetite and exercise to decide the best options for you. A physical exam or lab tests might be suggested. If medications are prescribed, they may target underlying health problems such as anemia or irregular thyroid activity. Your healthcare provider may suggest an appropriate exercise program or well-balanced diet.

MediNurse, St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing, offers care services that are customized to the individual needs and expectations of the client, patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.