Why Am I Always Tired? Common Causes of Persistent Fatigue

Constantly feeling tired, even after a full night’s rest, can interfere with your daily life, work, and overall well-being. While occasional fatigue is common, ongoing exhaustion often signals underlying health concerns. London Medic Lab offers targeted testing to help identify what may be draining your energy and provide insights into solutions for regaining vitality.

Common Causes of Persistent Fatigue

Anemia
Anemia occurs when the body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to transport oxygen efficiently, leading to feelings of exhaustion, dizziness, and weakness. Iron-deficiency anemia is particularly common and can be diagnosed through a simple Complete Blood Count (CBC) test, available at London Medic Lab.

Thyroid Imbalances
Both hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels) and hyperthyroidism (high thyroid hormone levels) can lead to fatigue. Hypothyroidism slows down metabolism, while hyperthyroidism can cause energy depletion. London Medic Lab offers a Full Thyroid Panel to evaluate your thyroid function comprehensively.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
CFS, or myalgic encephalomyelitis, is marked by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest. Although the cause is unclear, CFS is linked to immune system dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and sometimes viral infections.

Sleep Disorders
Disorders like insomnia or obstructive sleep apnea disrupt sleep cycles, resulting in poor-quality sleep and persistent fatigue. Addressing underlying sleep issues is essential to restoring energy.

Mental Health Conditions
Fatigue is common in conditions like depression and anxiety, where low mood, stress, and energy depletion are intertwined. A hormonal and mental health screening can help identify any physiological factors related to these conditions.

Heart Conditions
Heart-related issues such as congestive heart failure reduce blood circulation efficiency, causing fatigue. If accompanied by symptoms like shortness of breath, a cardiovascular assessment might be beneficial.

Viral Infections
Infections like the Epstein-Barr virus can lead to prolonged fatigue, sometimes lasting weeks or even months post-infection. Blood testing can help determine if post-viral fatigue is a factor.

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Deficiencies in vitamins such as B12, D, and essential minerals like iron are common contributors to fatigue. London Medic Lab offers Vitamin and Mineral Panels to detect these deficiencies.

Additional Contributing Factors to Consider

  • Poor Diet and Dehydration: A diet lacking in balanced nutrients and proper hydration can quickly deplete energy levels. Ensuring a mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can boost stamina.
  • Lack of Exercise: Moderate exercise enhances circulation and oxygenates tissues, which can improve energy. A sedentary lifestyle may lead to muscle fatigue and reduced endurance.
  • Allergies and Sensitivities: Allergic reactions or food intolerances can activate the immune system, leading to energy depletion. London Medic Lab provides Allergy Testing to help identify triggers.
  • Chronic Stress: Persistent stress leads to hormone imbalances, especially with cortisol, which can drain energy levels and result in “burnout.” Lifestyle adjustments and stress management techniques can play a crucial role in energy recovery.

Diagnostic Tests to Identify Fatigue Causes

London Medic Lab offers a variety of tests to help diagnose underlying causes of fatigue:

Complete Blood Count (CBC): Identifies signs of anemia or infection.

Thyroid Function Test: Checks for imbalances in thyroid hormone levels.

Vitamin and Mineral Panel: Detects deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamins D, B12, and iron.

Hormone Profile: Assesses adrenal and reproductive hormone levels for imbalances.

Allergy Screening: Determines if allergies may be contributing to fatigue.

With flexible options for in-clinic or at-home sample collection, London Medic Lab makes it convenient to assess the root causes of your fatigue.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If lifestyle adjustments don’t alleviate your fatigue, it may be time to consult a healthcare provider. Persistent fatigue can signal more serious health issues that require professional diagnosis. Testing at London Medic Lab provides insights to guide effective treatments, helping you restore your energy and quality of life.