Persistent tiredness and fatigue
Tiredness is common and can have many causes, including sleep problems, stress, lifestyle factors, medicines and medical conditions. Persistent or unexplained fatigue should not be reduced to a single vitamin deficiency.
Possible causes and context
- Insufficient or poor-quality sleep
- Stress, anxiety, depression or major life events
- Medicines and medical treatments
- Anaemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, sleep apnoea and other medical causes
When to seek medical advice
Seek medical advice if fatigue lasts for weeks, affects daily life, or occurs with symptoms such as weight loss, breathlessness, palpitations or major mood changes.
What might professional evaluation consider?
Evaluation depends on the symptom. A healthcare professional may ask about duration, sleep and lifestyle, medicines, diet and accompanying symptoms, and may arrange an examination or appropriate laboratory tests when indicated. The right tests depend on the individual clinical picture.
Related nutrition references
These links are for learning only. Their presence does not mean the nutrient is the cause of this symptom or that supplementation is appropriate.