Women and Fatigue

Always tired? Here’s what it may be telling you

If you’re up nights with a colicky baby or the night sweats of menopause, it’s no mystery why you’re tired. But if you get enough sleep and still have unexplained fatigue for more than two weeks, it’s time to call the doctor. Fatigue can be a warning sign of many different health problems.

Illness — “Exhaustion can signal anything from infection to cancer,” says internist Linda Augelli-Hodor, D.O., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. Typically, fatigue is just one of the symptoms of a given illness. With excessive thirst it can indicate diabetes, with joint pain it may signal rheumatoid arthritis, and fatigue with a persistent fever points to an infection. (Mononucleosis is a likely suspect, especially in teens.) Fatigue comes with a host of other symptoms in illnesses like multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism, liver disease, gastrointestinal problems or fibromyalgia.

Inactivity — Exercise keeps your heart working efficiently and makes your muscles stronger. This gives you endurance to get through the day without running out of energy. Regular exercise also helps you sleep better, so you feel more rested.

Poor nutrition — Skipping breakfast causes a mid-morning slump and makes it hard to reach a good energy level during the rest of the day. High-carbohydrate meals, caffeinated beverages and processed foods also can cause peaks and valleys in your energy. Focus on complex carbohydrates like whole grains to maintain energy at a steady level throughout the day.

Emotional issues — “Fatigue can be a symptom of a range of psychological concerns, from simple boredom to deep depression,” Augelli-Hodor says. “That’s why it’s important to tell your doctor about your emotional as well as physical health.” Sometimes depression causes sleeplessness; in other cases, it can make you feel too exhausted to do anything but sleep.

Sleep disorders — You may be unaware that a disorder like sleep apnea (a breathing-related illness characterized by heavy snoring) is disrupting your rest. If you’re simply a poor sleeper, improve your “sleep hygiene” by sticking with a regular bedtime, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and exercising earlier in the day instead of right before bed. These simple measures can improve the quality of your rest.

Menopause — Some women wake frequently because of night sweats; others find they just can’t sleep. Your gynecologist can help you find a solution to sleep problems during menopause.

Medications — Over-the-counter antihistamines, beta blockers and allergy remedies often cause mild fatigue.

“If you feel utterly exhausted for no reason or if your tiredness prevents you from doing things you usually do, see your physician,” Augelli-Hodor says.

Want to Know More about sleep disorders or tips for a good night’s sleep? Click at right.

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