Fatigue is much more than just drowsiness; it is a feeling of acute exhaustion and lack of energy that can make getting out of bed difficult. At five sites in Houston, TX, and Bordentown, Raritan, Lawrenceville, and East Brunswick, NJ, the compassionate staff at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine provides extensive, tailored examination and care of fatigue. If you are experiencing persistent weariness, contact a Lawrenceville fatigue specialist through mobile or request an appointment online.
What Exactly Is Fatigue?
Fatigue is not the same as sleepiness. As much as you may feel weary following a period of strenuous physical exercise, or insufficient rest, sleepiness is typically temporary.
Fatigue is a state of weariness that persists even after sleeping or resting. Unlike sleepiness, fatigue is more likely to be a persistent issue that prevents you from performing daily duties such as taking showers, food preparation, and going to work.
You might also experience the following symptoms based on the nature and source of your fatigue:
o Pains and aches in the muscles.
o Vision issues.
o Migraine.
o Slowed response time.
o Drowsiness during the day.
o Motivational deficit.
o Concentration problems.
o Changes in mood and irritability.
Fatigue could be a public health concern if it generates safety problems, such as trouble concentrating while driving.
What Is the Source of Fatigue?
Fatigue can be caused by various factors, including mental and physical health issues, as well as lifestyle factors such as exercise and nutrition habits. Many causes of weariness are evaluated and treated by the specialists at Performance Pain and Sports Medicine, including:
o Being underweight or obese.
o Particular types of arthritis, rheumatoid and lupus arthritis.
o Excessive or insufficient activity.
o Mental health disorders, such as anxiety, sadness, and stress.
o Drugs, like anxiety medications and antidepressants.
o Chronic pain, like fibromyalgia.
o Hormonal abnormalities, such as pregnancy and thyroid problems.
o Sleep disorders, such as jet lag and insomnia.
o Nutritional problems, such as mineral and vitamin deficits.
o Medical issues, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
o Consumption of caffeine or alcoholic beverages.
o Lung and heart diseases such as coronary artery disease and asthma.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic disorder that causes exhaustion.
What Is the Process for Identifying and Treating Fatigue?
Initially, Performance Pain and Sports Medicine specialists conduct a comprehensive physical exam and discuss your medical history and symptoms with you. They might do several diagnostic tests to establish the root reason for your exhaustion, including:
o Questionnaires on mental health.
o Imaging examinations, including X-rays and ultrasounds.
o Blood and Urine testing.
If they feel you have a sleep condition, they might recommend you to an expert to have a sleep study performed. After determining the source of your exhaustion, your provider develops a personalized treatment strategy for you. Care for fatigue could include one or more of the following, based on your needs:
o Hormone therapy.
o Alterations in sleeping patterns.
o Alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga.
o Periodic exercise.
o Adjustments in drinking and eating habits.
If your exhaustion is caused by a hidden medical problem, including high blood pressure or fibromyalgia, treating that disease may be the first step.
Contact the Performance Pain and Sports Medicine location near you or schedule an appointment online today for professional fatigue care.
