FIGHT fatigue

It is estimated around a third of New Zealanders are fatigued because they don’t get enough sleep. Although it’s natural for our energy levels to fluctuate, if you’re feeling chronically fatigued, there could be a few factors at play.

I’M SO TIRED!

Everyone feels tired at some point, and it’s usually resolved with a nap or an early night or two. Fatigue, on the other hand, is a feeling of constant tiredness or weakness and can be physical, mental or a combination of both.

What would cause it?

For many people, fatigue is caused by a combination of lifestyle and psychological issues rather than an underlying medical condition and will usually get better on its own or with some simple lifestyle changes. But if it’s having an impact on your quality of life, it’s time to consult your doctor who can help you work out the cause and order tests to rule out any illnesses.

FATIGUE SYMPTOMS

» Chronic tiredness or sleepiness

» Headache

» Dizziness

» Sore or aching muscles

» Muscle weakness

» Slowed reflexes and responses

» Impaired decision-making and judgement

» Moodiness, such as irritability

» Impaired hand-to-eye coordination

» Appetite loss

» Reduced immune system function

» Blurry vision

» Short-term memory problems

» Poor concentration

» Hallucinations

» Reduced ability to pay attention to the situation at hand

» Low motivation.

TRIGGERS INCLUDE:

Some people develop chronic fatigue syndrome after having a viral infection, such as the Epstein-Barr virus, Some sufferers appear to have slightly impaired immunity but again no conclusive link has been found. »