Do you frequently complain of getting tired without doing any physical or strenuous activity? If you dismiss this symptom counting as simply being part of a busy life, you should stop it right away. This is because it can be an indication of an underlying health issue. Here are five hidden health conditions that could be sapping your energy and the signs you should watch out for.
Health Conditions That Can Make You Tired
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormones, which are essential for regulating the body's metabolism. This condition can lead to a significant slowdown in bodily functions, making you feel perpetually exhausted.
Signs to Look Out For
- Unexplained weight gain
- Cold intolerance
- Dry skin and hair
- Constipation
- Muscle weakness
- Depression or mood swings
Why It Makes You Tired
Energy production is largely dependent on thyroid hormones. When their levels are low, the body's processes slow down, leading to fatigue and lethargy. If you experience these symptoms, a simple blood test can assess your thyroid function.
Sleep Apnoea
Another condition that may be leading to fatigue is sleep apnoea. It is a disorder in which your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These interruptions can severely impact your sleep quality, leaving you feeling tired even after a full night's rest.
According to a 2009 evaluation of 190 consecutive sleep clinic patients with polysomnographically-confirmed Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), it was found that the primary complaints are often fatigue, tiredness, or lack of energy rather than sleepiness itself. Women, in particular, reported higher levels of fatigue, tiredness, and lack of energy compared to men.
Signs to Look Out For
- Loud snoring
- Waking up gasping for air
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Daytime drowsiness
Why It Makes You Tired
The constant interruptions in breathing prevent you from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep. This fragmented sleep pattern can leave you feeling drained during the day. A sleep study can diagnose sleep apnea, and treatments include lifestyle changes, CPAP machines, or surgical options.
Anaemia
A person with anaemia lacks enough healthy red blood cells to carry enough oxygen throughout their body. This oxygen deficiency can lead to significant fatigue.
Signs to Look Out For
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Cold hands and feet
Why It Makes You Tired
Without sufficient oxygen, your muscles and organs can't function optimally, leading to a constant feeling of exhaustion. Anaemia can be diagnosed with a blood test, and treatment typically involves dietary changes, supplements, or addressing underlying causes.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is characterised by extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental activity.
Signs to Look Out For
- Severe, chronic tiredness
- Muscle or joint pain
- Memory or concentration problems
- Sore throat
- Enlarged lymph nodes
Why It Makes You Tired
The exact cause of CFS is unknown, but it's thought to be related to a combination of genetic, environmental, and viral factors. Persistent fatigue and other symptoms make it difficult to carry out everyday tasks. Diagnosis is usually made through exclusion, and management focuses on symptom relief.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder where your body either can't produce enough insulin or can't effectively use the insulin it does produce. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue. According to a 2014 study, approximately 40% of individuals with type 1 diabetes reported experiencing chronic fatigue. The authors also observed that this fatigue is often so severe that it affects daily activities and quality of life.
Signs to Look Out For
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing sores
Why It Makes You Tired
High blood sugar levels prevent glucose from entering your cells, leaving them starved for energy. This can lead to constant fatigue and lethargy. Diabetes can be diagnosed with blood tests, and management includes lifestyle changes, medications, and monitoring blood sugar levels.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert before making any dietary changes, especially if you are dealing with any health issues.]