What Fatigue Could be Telling You About Your Health

Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness that can be the result of many things, including lack of sleep, stress, or an illness. It can be very debilitating and make it difficult to do everyday tasks. If chronic fatigue is something you’ve been experiencing on a regular basis, it might be time to make an appointment with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center. Our team can help you determine the cause of your fatigue and provide treatment options to help you feel better.

Fatigue is More Than Just Being Tired

While most people experience fatigue from time to time, it’s important to understand that it is different from simply being tired. Tiredness is a normal response to physical or mental activity and usually goes away after rest. Fatigue, on the other hand, is a constant feeling of exhaustion that can’t be remedied by rest alone. Chronic fatigue can make it difficult to function both mentally and physically, and if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by profound tiredness, regardless of bed rest. Its symptoms may worsen with physical or mental activity. CFS can happen suddenly and last for years. The condition affects more females than males. While the cause is unknown, certain factors are seen more often in people with CFS. These factors include:

• Gender: CFS happens up to 4 times more often in women than in men.
• Age: CFS commonly affects middle-aged people, but people of any age can get it.

Symptoms of CFS may mimic the flu, but can also include:

• Sensitivity to light
• Headache
• Tender lymph nodes
• Weakness
• Muscle and joint pain
• Inability to concentrate
• Insomnia
• Forgetfulness
• Mood swings
• Confusion
• Low-grade fever
• Depression

Causes

Nearly any kind of major injury, illness, or infection can lead to fatigue. This lack of energy should go once we find the underlying issue. However, some forms of tiredness are chronic treatment will require routine care. Your weakness and fatigue may be due to:

• Infections like Lyme disease and AIDS/HIV
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Thyroid issues
• Electrolyte imbalances and dehydration
• Nutrient deficiencies like anemia
• Cold or flu
• Excessive work or stress combined with a lack of relaxation
• Heart problems
• Kidney disease
• Depression and other mental health conditions
• Abuse of over the counter, prescription, or illegal drugs

If you’re experiencing fatigue on a regular basis, it’s important to consult with a doctor to rule out any underlying causes. Once there is a diagnosis, our team at Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center can develop a treatment plan to help you feel your best.

Treatment

The first step in treating fatigue is to address any underlying causes. For example, if you have a sleep disorder, we may recommend lifestyle changes or therapy to help you get the rest you need. If your fatigue is the result of an illness or infection, we’ll work with you to treat the underlying condition. We also offer a variety of therapies that can help improve your energy levels and reduce fatigue. Our team may recommend:

• Testing for food allergies or environmental sensitivities that can cause fatigue
• Supplementation and diet plans to fix nutrient deficiencies
• Exercises and stretching to release muscle tension and pain that drains your energy
• Adjustments and spinal care from the chiropractor

Restore Healthy Energy Levels

If vigorous exercise or the stresses of work are making it hard for you to feel rested, consider seeking treatment even when your fatigue is temporary. A relaxing massage could restore your energy after an illness or period of depression wipes you out. Keep your life running smoothly and according to plan by tackling symptoms like chronic pain, insomnia, and fatigue as soon as they appear. Our medical team will provide help no matter the cause.

Make an Appointment with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center

If you’re experiencing chronic fatigue, the first step is to consult with a doctor. Once any underlying causes have been ruled out or treated, our team at Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center can develop a plan to help improve your energy levels. We offer a variety of therapies that can be customized to meet your needs. To learn more or to make an appointment, contact us today!