Fatigue is a common complaint, and it’s one we often attribute to stress, a lack of sleep, or a busy schedule. Most of the time, fatigue can be resolved with some rest, relaxation, and lifestyle adjustments. However, for some people, chronic fatigue lingers beyond normal tiredness and could be a signal of something more serious.
According to our expert, Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant and General Physician - Sharda Hospital - Noida, if your fatigue is persistent, unexplained, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be time to consider if it’s related to a neurological condition. Here is what else he shared with us.
When Is Fatigue A Red Flag?
Normal fatigue after a long day or strenuous activity is typically temporary and improves with rest. But when fatigue is prolonged, severe, or affects your ability to function daily, it becomes concerning. If you’re experiencing extreme tiredness that doesn’t improve with adequate sleep or worsens over time, it may be time to seek medical advice.
Other red-flag symptoms to watch for include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, headaches, muscle weakness, vision changes, or loss of coordination. These symptoms could point to a neurological issue that needs evaluation.
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Fatigue and Neurological Disorders: A Possible Link
Several neurological conditions can manifest through fatigue as a primary symptom. Here are some key neurological disorders that are known to cause persistent, unexplained fatigue, according to our expert:
1. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of MS, affecting up to 80% of those diagnosed. This type of fatigue is often described as ‘MS fatigue’ and can be unpredictable, affecting people even after a full night’s sleep. MS-related fatigue may also include cognitive fog, muscle weakness, and sudden loss of energy.
2. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)
CFS, also known as ME, is a neurological disorder marked by severe, disabling fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental exertion. Those with CFS often experience ‘post-exertional malaise,’ where even minor activities can lead to days of severe exhaustion. Other symptoms may include muscle pain, sore throat, and memory issues.
3. Parkinson’s Disease
Fatigue is common in Parkinson’s disease, sometimes even before the more visible symptoms, such as tremors, appear. This fatigue is often resistant to typical treatments and can be deeply debilitating, impacting patients’ quality of life. Fatigue in Parkinson’s is thought to be linked to changes in brain chemistry, particularly dopamine reduction.
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4. Fibromyalgia
Though primarily known for causing chronic pain, fibromyalgia also leads to significant fatigue and is considered a neurological condition affecting pain processing. The fatigue can be profound and is often accompanied by sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties, and muscle soreness.
5. Sleep Disorders (e.g., Narcolepsy)
Fatigue from neurological sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, is different from simple tiredness. People with narcolepsy experience sudden, intense drowsiness that can make it difficult to stay awake during normal activities. Sleep disorders like these often require specialised treatment for symptom relief.
Takeaway
Chronic fatigue isn’t always a result of lifestyle factors—it can be a signal from your nervous system that something is off. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek help. Listening to your body and getting the proper diagnosis could be the first step toward reclaiming your energy and wellbeing. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Blood tests, neurological exams, imaging studies, and sleep assessments can help determine if an underlying condition is at play.