Fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most common complaints. It can be the presenting symptom of almost any disease. When fatigue is acute it is most often associated with bacterial or viral infections. About 50% of those that suffer with fatigue also have depression, anxiety or other mental/emotional stress. Chronic fatigue is a associated with a wide-range of other conditions. Determining the cause of fatigue requires a complete medical history including the duration of the fatigue, the associated symptoms and the nature of the symptoms.
Fatigue | |
Causes | Dietary Factors, Infections, Stress |
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See Also | Other Conditions, Anemia, Hypothyroidism, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Congestive Heart Failure |
Books | Books on Other Conditions |
Articles | Articles on Other Conditions |
Related Conditions
Fatigue is commonly associated with the following conditions:[1]
Acute Fatigue
- bacterial infection
- viral infection
- acute stressful event
- heart failure
- anemia
Check out this book | Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Your Natural Guide to Healing with Diet, Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Exercise, and Other Natural Methods |
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Check out this book | The Vitamin Cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome |
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Check out this book | Energy For Life: How to Overcome Chronic Fatigue |
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Chronic Fatigue
- hepatitis
- infectious mononucleosis
- tuberculosis
- hypothyroidism
- Hormone imbalances
- cancer
- rheumatoid arthritis
- fibromyalgia
- congestive heart failure
- sleep apnea
- serum electrolyte abnormalities
- chronic lung disease
- anemia
- chronic pain
Fatigue Due to Medications
- drugs that commonly cause fatigue include antihistamines, tranquilizers, psychotropics, hypnotics, antihypertensives
Other Causes of Fatigue
- inadequate sleep
- insomnia
- lack of nutrients
- dietary imbalance
- food allergies
- food sensitivities
- excessive caffeine
- alcohol
Diagnostic Testing
Diagnostic tests seldom yield the cause of chronic fatigue. Yet, when the cause of the fatigue is not clear based on the history the following laboratory tests may be helpful:
- Blood Tests including a CBC, urinalysis, Blood Glucose, ESR, tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), purified protein derivative, Thyroid Panel, [Electrolytes|Serum electrolytes]]
- Other Tests which may be considered include a chest radiograph, tuberculin test, monospot test or a sleep study.
Naturopathic Treatment
The goal of naturopathic treatment is to support and work in tandem with the healing power of the body and to address the causal factors of disease with individual treatment strategies. Fatigue is typically treated by treating the condition or conditions that it is associated with.
It is always advisable to work with a naturopathic doctor before engaging in any treatment plan.
For a more extensive look at treatments specific to chronic fatigue check out Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
References
- ↑ Seller Robert (2000) Differential Diagnosis of Common Complaints, fourth edition, Chapter 14 Fatigue. W.B. Saunders Company.