Fatigue

Fatigue is more than simply feeling tired; it’s complete exhaustion that affects your physical, mental, and cognitive health. At My True Image in Phoenix and Glendale, Arizona, Robin F. MacDougall, DO, can uncover the source of fatigue and create the appropriate treatment to restore your energy levels and improve your physical and cognitive function. Call My True Image today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about fatigue.

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is complete physical, mental, and cognitive exhaustion that doesn’t resolve from a good night’s sleep. When you have fatigue, you constantly feel weary and tired. You may not wake up refreshed or recharged as you would expect after sleeping. Many people with fatigue experience mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating. 

What are the signs of fatigue?

Fatigue presents differently in everyone. Some individuals may feel persistently tired, while others experience unexplained aches and pains. The most common signs of fatigue include:

• Low energy
• Lack of motivation
• Slowed movements
• Depression or anxiety
• Irritability
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Poor concentration
• Nervousness
• Heavy legs
• Stiff shoulders

Relaxation can also be a challenge when you have fatigue. When you feel drained, your body may remain tense and unable to unwind.

What causes fatigue?

Many lifestyle habits, medical conditions, and medications can lead to chronic fatigue, such as:

• Insomnia
• Sleep apnea
• Narcolepsy
• Poor diet
• Lack of exercise
• Stress 
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Alcohol consumption

Antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and chemotherapy can also wear down your body and cause fatigue.

Is fatigue dangerous?

Fatigue affects every aspect of your health. Without proper rest, even simple routine tasks can seem daunting. Chronic fatigue can interfere with your performance at work, interpersonal relationships, and independence. 

Determining the cause of your fatigue is the first step in providing effective treatment. The team at My True Image performs comprehensive testing to diagnose fatigue. They perform a complete medical history review, physical exam, blood work, and urinalysis to make an accurate diagnosis.

What are the treatments for fatigue?

Fatigue is a complex condition that typically responds to an individualized approach to treatment. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for fatigue. The team usually recommends a combination of nutritional counseling, lifestyle modifications, and medications or supplements.

If an underlying medical condition is causing your fatigue, the team can create a comprehensive treatment to address your symptoms. Vitamin injections, B-12 shots, and over-the-counter supplements may help minimize signs of fatigue.

Fatigue rarely resolves quickly. The team offers telehealth appointments to check in on your treatment progress. They can adjust your plan as needed to restore your energy levels and help you feel like yourself again.

Call My True Image today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about fatigue.