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Why Am I Constantly Tired?
Fatigue Fighters
Question: "I'm constantly tired. Could this be a symptom of something more serious?"Answer: First, evaluate your habits. Are you working too much, not getting enough sleep, not eating well or not exercising enough? Saralyn Mark, MD, senior medical advisor in the Office on Women's Health of the Department of Health and Human Services points out, "stress and depression can also make you very tired." Getting at least eight hours of quality sleep a night, eating healthfully, and trying to exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week most likely will help people who suffer from chronic fatigue.
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Still Tired. Now What?
"I've tried all these tactics and I'm still snoozy." We hear you. These surprising culprits may also be to blame:
You might still have groggy days once you've got your energy-boosting routine down. Here, solutions for when you're dragging:
"Is Pre-Workout Caffeine 'Cheating'?" >>
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Could It Be Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
So you're getting at least eight hours of quality sleep a night, eating healthfully, and trying to exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week -- and still you're exhausted? Talk to your physician. More serious cases of feeling tired could be an indication of chronic fatigue syndrome.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, ExplainedThe symptoms of CFS are similar to those of many ailments, and researchers don't know exactly what causes it -- theories range from a virus to a malfunctioning immune system. As a result, no one is certain how many people have it. If you do have CFS, symptoms such as headache, tender lymph glands, sore throat, fatigue and weakness, muscle and joint pain, "unrefreshing" sleep, and the inability to concentrate may come and go or remain constant for six months, in which case you should see a physician.
Originally published in FITNESS magazine. Updated March 2007.
