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| Meta Title | Sudden extreme fatigue: Causes and treatment |
| Meta Description | Sudden, extreme fatigue can happen when a person does a lot of physical activity, is ill, or has a medical condition. |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Sudden, extreme fatigue can occur due to various medical conditions, including diabetes, depression, and fibromyalgia. Treatment varies depending on the cause.
Fatigue is when a person feels persistent exhaustion, lack of energy, or burnout. This can be physical, mental, or both. It is more than simply feeling sleepy or drowsy.
There are many reasons a person may experience fatigue. These range from allergies to chronic conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes.
pollen
pets
foods
Some people may experience any or all of the following issues due to allergies:
a runny nose
itching
rashes
breathing problems
When people come into contact with an allergen, the
body releases
the chemical histamine to fight it off. This causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction, which can include sudden tiredness.
Treatment
The following treatments
may help
a person with allergies:
avoiding contact with allergens
taking medication, such as
antihistamines
or steroids
allergen-specific immunotherapy
Depression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness and disinterest.
The condition is due to a disturbance in the central nervous system,
which causes
neurotransmitters to not function as they should, including:
serotonin
norepinephrine
dopamine
Fatigue is one of the
main symptoms
individuals may experience with depression.
Research from 2023
notes that fatigue in depression may be linked to the common decline in executive functions. Executive functions involve:
monitoring and updating information in the working memory
shifting between mental tasks or sets
inhibition of dominant responses
Individuals with depression may also experience sleep issues, such as difficulty sleeping, waking too early, and oversleeping.
Treatment
Some research supports the following treatments for fatigue and depression:
medications
, including
modafinil
and
atomoxetine
antidepressants
, such as
citalopram
and
venlafaxine
psychotherapy, such as
cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
electroconvulsive therapy
if depression symptoms are severe
Experts
do not currently know
why some people develop this condition, although studies suggest that genes may play a part.
Fibromyalgia causes people to perceive pain as being greater than the discomfort that people without this disorder experience.
One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is chronic fatigue. People are more likely to experience this fatigue when they wake up in the morning, but this can also occur in the mid-afternoon.
Periods of inactivity and activity can increase this tiredness, and it may disturb sleep, causing people to wake up feeling unrefreshed.
Treatment
Treatment options for fibromyalgia include the following:
aerobic physical activity of 30 minutes, three times a week
antidepressant medications, such as
duloxetine
physical therapy and psychotherapy
alternative therapies, such as tai chi,
yoga
, and
acupuncture
coronary artery disease
, which causes:
angina
heart attack
heart failure
cerebrovascular disease results in
stroke
and
transient ischemic attack
, which may be a warning sign for stroke
peripheral artery disease
affects the limbs, resulting in cramps
aortic
atherosclerosis
, which triggers
aneurysms
in the torso and abdomen
People may not show any symptoms of heart disease. For example, a person may have a silent, unnoticeable ischemic attack.
Other symptoms of heart disease include:
chest pain
weakness in the limbs and arms
facial drooping
cough and shortness of breath
Females are
more likely
to experience fatigue as a symptom of heart disease. People with chronic heart disease are also more likely to experience fatigue.
Symptoms can become worse the longer a person has heart disease due to plaque building up in the arteries, narrowing and hardening them.
Treatment
Treatment options for heart disease include the
following
:
Statins
and
aspirin
may help prevent stroke and other complications of heart disease.
Making sure
cholesterol
,
blood pressure
, and
glucose
are at normal levels.
Quitting smoking
, following a
healthful diet
, and taking up physical activity may help prevent complications.
Arthritis
, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA), can trigger fatigue.
RA causes people
to have
swollen and painful joints, joint stiffness, and a feeling of physical weakness.
People can experience fatigue early on in RA or not at all. Symptoms are
the result of
a dysfunction of the immune system.
People who develop RA are likely to be genetically predisposed to this condition. Environmental factors, such as smoking, can also increase the risk.
Treatment
Treatment options for arthritis include the
following
:
physical activity, physical therapy, and acupuncture
anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids
disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
This leads to
snoring
and disturbed sleep. People with apnea may also stop breathing due to this obstruction for 10 or more seconds.
People are more likely to have sleep apnea if they have
obesity
, consume alcohol or sedatives, or smoke.
Because this condition causes disturbed sleep, people are likely to wake up tired. They may also experience fatigue during the day.
Other symptoms of sleep apnea include memory problems, a sore throat, and a decrease in sex drive.
Treatment
using a
continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine
chin straps or devices that keep the tongue in place may reduce snoring
eating a healthful, balanced diet and exercising
avoiding alcohol before bed
sleeping on the side rather than on the stomach or back
Diabetes is a long-term health condition
that affects
how efficiently the body turns food into energy.
When a person eats food, their pancreas releases insulin, which allows blood sugar into the cells so the body can use it for energy.
In type 1 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
Researchers believe that a lack of insulin makes the body rely on fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. This causes chemical changes that may lead to an increase in fatigue.
It is also possible that people may experience psychological fatigue.
Researchers believe that the inability to manage diabetes without medication may lead to a sense of fatigue. When people experience fatigue, they are less likely to manage their condition. This can lead to a cycle of tiredness and distress.
Treatment
The treatment options for diabetes
include
:
taking
insulin
managing blood sugar levels
eating
a healthful, balanced
diet
, and being physically active
controlling cholesterol
Apart from treating and managing underlying conditions, one way to potentially to prevent fatigue is to ensure people practice good sleep hygiene.
Some tips for a good night’s sleep
include
:
sleeping with a regular schedule
relaxing before bed
avoiding using electronic devices in the bedroom
keeping the bedroom at a comfortable temperature and using low lighting in the evenings
exercising during the day
avoiding eating large meals before bed and drinking caffeine in the afternoon and evening
Making lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes may help people feel less tired during the day. These adjustments
include
:
keeping a fatigue diary to note tiredness patterns
exercising regularly
avoiding napping for more than 30 minutes
quitting smoking
asking for help if they feel overwhelmed
People should contact a healthcare professional if they think their fatigue is a symptom of an underlying condition.
A person should also speak with a medical professional if their fatigue stops them from participating in typical daily activities, or negatively impacts their life.
A healthcare professional can share management tips, diagnose any underlying conditions, and suggest treatment plans.
Fatigue, or extreme tiredness, can be due to several conditions, including diabetes, depression, and fibromyalgia.
It can stop people from participating in their typical daily activities. However, by treating or managing this symptom, as well as any underlying conditions, people may go on to live their typical lives.
A doctor can recommend lifestyle changes and medical treatments to manage the conditions that trigger fatigue. |
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# What causes sudden episodes of extreme fatigue?

[Medically reviewed]() by [Mia Armstrong, MD]() — Written by Veronica Zambon — [Updated on December 9, 2024]()
- [Allergies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#allergies)
- [Depression](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#depression)
- [Fibromyalgia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#fibromyalgia)
- [Heart disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#heart-disease)
- [Arthritis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#arthritis)
- [Sleep apnea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#sleep-apnea)
- [Diabetes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#diabetes)
- [Prevention](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#prevention)
- [Contacting a doctor](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#contacting-a-doctor)
- [Summary](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sudden-extreme-fatigue#summary)
Sudden, extreme fatigue can occur due to various medical conditions, including diabetes, depression, and fibromyalgia. Treatment varies depending on the cause.
Fatigue is when a person feels persistent exhaustion, lack of energy, or burnout. This can be physical, mental, or both. It is more than simply feeling sleepy or drowsy.
There are many reasons a person may experience fatigue. These range from allergies to chronic conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes.
## [Allergies]()

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[Allergies](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/264419) result from the body’s immune system [overreacting to allergens](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK447112/), such as:
- pollen
- pets
- foods
Some people may experience any or all of the following issues due to allergies:
- a runny nose
- itching
- rashes
- breathing problems
When people come into contact with an allergen, the [body releases](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545237/) the chemical histamine to fight it off. This causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction, which can include sudden tiredness.
### Treatment
The following treatments [may help](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK447112/) a person with allergies:
- avoiding contact with allergens
- taking medication, such as [antihistamines](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antihistamines) or steroids
- [allergen-specific immunotherapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320402)
## [Depression]()
Depression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness and disinterest.
The condition is due to a disturbance in the central nervous system, [which causes](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430847/) neurotransmitters to not function as they should, including:
- serotonin
- norepinephrine
- dopamine
Fatigue is one of the [main symptoms](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression) individuals may experience with depression.
[Research from 2023](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772598723000193) notes that fatigue in depression may be linked to the common decline in executive functions. Executive functions involve:
- monitoring and updating information in the working memory
- shifting between mental tasks or sets
- inhibition of dominant responses
Individuals with depression may also experience sleep issues, such as difficulty sleeping, waking too early, and oversleeping.
### Treatment
Some research supports the following treatments for fatigue and depression:
- [medications](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40263-018-0490-z), including [modafinil](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325963) and [atomoxetine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-strattera)
- [antidepressants](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430847/)
, such as [citalopram](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-citalopram-oral-tablet) and [venlafaxine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263705)
- psychotherapy, such as [cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/296579)
- [electroconvulsive therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/297655) if depression symptoms are severe
[Learn more about depression.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933)
## [Fibromyalgia]()
[Fibromyalgia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/147083) is a chronic pain disorder.
Experts [do not currently know](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540974/) why some people develop this condition, although studies suggest that genes may play a part.
Fibromyalgia causes people to perceive pain as being greater than the discomfort that people without this disorder experience.
One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is chronic fatigue. People are more likely to experience this fatigue when they wake up in the morning, but this can also occur in the mid-afternoon.
Periods of inactivity and activity can increase this tiredness, and it may disturb sleep, causing people to wake up feeling unrefreshed.
### Treatment
Treatment options for fibromyalgia include the following:
- aerobic physical activity of 30 minutes, three times a week
- antidepressant medications, such as [duloxetine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/duloxetine-oral-capsule)
- physical therapy and psychotherapy
- alternative therapies, such as tai chi, [yoga](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286745), and [acupuncture](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156488)
Learn more about [fibromyalgia treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321534).
## [Heart disease]()
Heart disease refers to [four different conditions](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535419/):
- [coronary artery disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/184130), which causes:
- [angina](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8886)
- [heart attack](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151444)
- [heart failure](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-heart-failure)
- cerebrovascular disease results in [stroke](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7624) and [transient ischemic attack](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/164038), which may be a warning sign for stroke
- [peripheral artery disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/188939) affects the limbs, resulting in cramps
- aortic [atherosclerosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247837), which triggers [aneurysms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156993) in the torso and abdomen
People may not show any symptoms of heart disease. For example, a person may have a silent, unnoticeable ischemic attack.
Other symptoms of heart disease include:
- chest pain
- weakness in the limbs and arms
- facial drooping
- cough and shortness of breath
Females are [more likely](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-heart-disease) to experience fatigue as a symptom of heart disease. People with chronic heart disease are also more likely to experience fatigue.
Symptoms can become worse the longer a person has heart disease due to plaque building up in the arteries, narrowing and hardening them.
### Treatment
Treatment options for heart disease include the [following](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535419/):
- [Statins](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8274) and [aspirin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161255) may help prevent stroke and other complications of heart disease.
- Making sure [cholesterol](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316190), [blood pressure](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270644), and [glucose](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249413) are at normal levels.
- [Quitting smoking](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/241302), following a [healthful diet](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324093), and taking up physical activity may help prevent complications.
## [Arthritis]()
[Arthritis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7621), particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA), can trigger fatigue.
RA causes people [to have](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK384467/) swollen and painful joints, joint stiffness, and a feeling of physical weakness.
People can experience fatigue early on in RA or not at all. Symptoms are [the result of](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518992/) a dysfunction of the immune system.
People who develop RA are likely to be genetically predisposed to this condition. Environmental factors, such as smoking, can also increase the risk.
[Learn more about rheumatoid arthritis.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323361)
### Treatment
Treatment options for arthritis include the [following](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518992/):
- physical activity, physical therapy, and acupuncture
- anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids
- disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
Read about [rheumatoid arthritis treatments](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment).
## [Sleep apnea]()
[Sleep apnea](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178633) is a condition where the upper airway [does not function](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441909/) correctly during sleep.
This leads to [snoring](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/303834) and disturbed sleep. People with apnea may also stop breathing due to this obstruction for 10 or more seconds.
People are more likely to have sleep apnea if they have [obesity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323551), consume alcohol or sedatives, or smoke.
Because this condition causes disturbed sleep, people are likely to wake up tired. They may also experience fatigue during the day.
Other symptoms of sleep apnea include memory problems, a sore throat, and a decrease in sex drive.
### Treatment
[Treatments](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441909/) for sleep apnea include:
- using a [continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-does-a-cpap-machine-do-when-you-stop-breathing)
- chin straps or devices that keep the tongue in place may reduce snoring
- eating a healthful, balanced diet and exercising
- avoiding alcohol before bed
- sleeping on the side rather than on the stomach or back
## [Diabetes]()
Diabetes is a long-term health condition [that affects](https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/) how efficiently the body turns food into energy.
When a person eats food, their pancreas releases insulin, which allows blood sugar into the cells so the body can use it for energy.
In type 1 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
Fatigue is a [common symptom](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6064586/) of diabetes.
Researchers believe that a lack of insulin makes the body rely on fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. This causes chemical changes that may lead to an increase in fatigue.
It is also possible that people may experience psychological fatigue.
Researchers believe that the inability to manage diabetes without medication may lead to a sense of fatigue. When people experience fatigue, they are less likely to manage their condition. This can lead to a cycle of tiredness and distress.
### Treatment
The treatment options for diabetes [include](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/insulin-medicines-treatments):
- taking [insulin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323387)
- managing blood sugar levels
- [eating](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/healthy-living-with-diabetes)
a healthful, balanced [diet](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324416), and being physically active
- controlling cholesterol
Learn more about [diabetes treatment](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323716).
## [Prevention of sudden fatigue]()
Apart from treating and managing underlying conditions, one way to potentially to prevent fatigue is to ensure people practice good sleep hygiene.
Some tips for a good night’s sleep [include](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep):
- sleeping with a regular schedule
- relaxing before bed
- avoiding using electronic devices in the bedroom
- keeping the bedroom at a comfortable temperature and using low lighting in the evenings
- exercising during the day
- avoiding eating large meals before bed and drinking caffeine in the afternoon and evening
Learn more [tips for sleeping better](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325303).
### Making lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes may help people feel less tired during the day. These adjustments [include](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fatigue-older-adults):
- keeping a fatigue diary to note tiredness patterns
- exercising regularly
- avoiding napping for more than 30 minutes
- quitting smoking
- asking for help if they feel overwhelmed
[Learn more about fatigue.](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248002)
## [When to see a doctor]()
People should contact a healthcare professional if they think their fatigue is a symptom of an underlying condition.
A person should also speak with a medical professional if their fatigue stops them from participating in typical daily activities, or negatively impacts their life.
A healthcare professional can share management tips, diagnose any underlying conditions, and suggest treatment plans.
## [Summary]()
Fatigue, or extreme tiredness, can be due to several conditions, including diabetes, depression, and fibromyalgia.
It can stop people from participating in their typical daily activities. However, by treating or managing this symptom, as well as any underlying conditions, people may go on to live their typical lives.
A doctor can recommend lifestyle changes and medical treatments to manage the conditions that trigger fatigue.
- [Allergy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/allergy)
- [Body Aches](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/body-aches)
- [Diabetes](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/diabetes)
- [Heart Disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/heart-disease)
- [Mental Health](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/mental-health)
- [Rheumatoid Arthritis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/rheumatoid-arthritis)
- [Immune System / Vaccines](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/immune-system)
- [Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/categories/sleep)
### How we reviewed this article:
Sources
Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/process).
- A good night’s sleep. (2020).
<https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep>
- Allergies: Overview. (2023).
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK447112/>
- Bhargava J, et al. (2023). Fibromyalgia.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540974/>
- Chand SP, et al. (2023). Depression.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430847/>
- Coronary heart disease. (n.d.).
<https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-heart-disease>
- Depression. (2024).
<https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression>
- Diabetes basics. (2024).
<https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/>
- Dougherty J M, et al. (2023). Allergy.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545237/>
- Fatigue in older adults. (2023).
<https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fatigue-older-adults>
- Ghanean H, et al. (2018). Fatigue in patients with major depressive disorder: Prevalence, burden, and pharmacological approaches to management.
<https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40263-018-0490-z>
- Kalra S, et al. (2018). Diabetes fatigue syndrome.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6064586/>
- Kraft B, et al. (2023). The association between depression symptoms and reduced executive functioning is primarily linked by fatigue.
<https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772598723000193>
- Lopez EO, et al. (2023). Cardiovascular disease.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535419/>
- Memon J, et al. (2023). Obstructive sleep-disordered breathing.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441909/>
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn more– Fatigue related to rheumatoid arthritis. (2024).
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK384467/>
- Senthelal S, et al. (2023). Arthritis.
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518992/>
- What is diabetes? (2023).
<https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes>
Share this article

[Medically reviewed]() by [Mia Armstrong, MD]() — Written by Veronica Zambon — [Updated on December 9, 2024]()
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| Readable Markdown | Sudden, extreme fatigue can occur due to various medical conditions, including diabetes, depression, and fibromyalgia. Treatment varies depending on the cause.
Fatigue is when a person feels persistent exhaustion, lack of energy, or burnout. This can be physical, mental, or both. It is more than simply feeling sleepy or drowsy.
There are many reasons a person may experience fatigue. These range from allergies to chronic conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes.
- pollen
- pets
- foods
Some people may experience any or all of the following issues due to allergies:
- a runny nose
- itching
- rashes
- breathing problems
When people come into contact with an allergen, the [body releases](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545237/) the chemical histamine to fight it off. This causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction, which can include sudden tiredness.
Treatment
The following treatments [may help](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK447112/) a person with allergies:
- avoiding contact with allergens
- taking medication, such as [antihistamines](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/antihistamines) or steroids
- [allergen-specific immunotherapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320402)
Depression is a mood disorder that causes feelings of sadness and disinterest.
The condition is due to a disturbance in the central nervous system, [which causes](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430847/) neurotransmitters to not function as they should, including:
- serotonin
- norepinephrine
- dopamine
Fatigue is one of the [main symptoms](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression) individuals may experience with depression.
[Research from 2023](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772598723000193) notes that fatigue in depression may be linked to the common decline in executive functions. Executive functions involve:
- monitoring and updating information in the working memory
- shifting between mental tasks or sets
- inhibition of dominant responses
Individuals with depression may also experience sleep issues, such as difficulty sleeping, waking too early, and oversleeping.
Treatment
Some research supports the following treatments for fatigue and depression:
- [medications](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40263-018-0490-z), including [modafinil](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325963) and [atomoxetine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-strattera)
- [antidepressants](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430847/)
, such as [citalopram](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-citalopram-oral-tablet) and [venlafaxine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263705)
- psychotherapy, such as [cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/296579)
- [electroconvulsive therapy](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/297655) if depression symptoms are severe
Experts [do not currently know](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540974/) why some people develop this condition, although studies suggest that genes may play a part.
Fibromyalgia causes people to perceive pain as being greater than the discomfort that people without this disorder experience.
One of the symptoms of fibromyalgia is chronic fatigue. People are more likely to experience this fatigue when they wake up in the morning, but this can also occur in the mid-afternoon.
Periods of inactivity and activity can increase this tiredness, and it may disturb sleep, causing people to wake up feeling unrefreshed.
Treatment
Treatment options for fibromyalgia include the following:
- aerobic physical activity of 30 minutes, three times a week
- antidepressant medications, such as [duloxetine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/duloxetine-oral-capsule)
- physical therapy and psychotherapy
- alternative therapies, such as tai chi, [yoga](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286745), and [acupuncture](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156488)
- [coronary artery disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/184130), which causes:
- [angina](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8886)
- [heart attack](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151444)
- [heart failure](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-heart-failure)
- cerebrovascular disease results in [stroke](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7624) and [transient ischemic attack](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/164038), which may be a warning sign for stroke
- [peripheral artery disease](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/188939) affects the limbs, resulting in cramps
- aortic [atherosclerosis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/247837), which triggers [aneurysms](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/156993) in the torso and abdomen
People may not show any symptoms of heart disease. For example, a person may have a silent, unnoticeable ischemic attack.
Other symptoms of heart disease include:
- chest pain
- weakness in the limbs and arms
- facial drooping
- cough and shortness of breath
Females are [more likely](https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-heart-disease) to experience fatigue as a symptom of heart disease. People with chronic heart disease are also more likely to experience fatigue.
Symptoms can become worse the longer a person has heart disease due to plaque building up in the arteries, narrowing and hardening them.
Treatment
Treatment options for heart disease include the [following](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535419/):
- [Statins](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8274) and [aspirin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161255) may help prevent stroke and other complications of heart disease.
- Making sure [cholesterol](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316190), [blood pressure](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270644), and [glucose](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/249413) are at normal levels.
- [Quitting smoking](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/241302), following a [healthful diet](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324093), and taking up physical activity may help prevent complications.
[Arthritis](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7621), particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA), can trigger fatigue.
RA causes people [to have](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK384467/) swollen and painful joints, joint stiffness, and a feeling of physical weakness.
People can experience fatigue early on in RA or not at all. Symptoms are [the result of](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518992/) a dysfunction of the immune system.
People who develop RA are likely to be genetically predisposed to this condition. Environmental factors, such as smoking, can also increase the risk.
Treatment
Treatment options for arthritis include the [following](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK518992/):
- physical activity, physical therapy, and acupuncture
- anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids
- disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs
This leads to [snoring](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/303834) and disturbed sleep. People with apnea may also stop breathing due to this obstruction for 10 or more seconds.
People are more likely to have sleep apnea if they have [obesity](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323551), consume alcohol or sedatives, or smoke.
Because this condition causes disturbed sleep, people are likely to wake up tired. They may also experience fatigue during the day.
Other symptoms of sleep apnea include memory problems, a sore throat, and a decrease in sex drive.
Treatment
- using a [continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-does-a-cpap-machine-do-when-you-stop-breathing)
- chin straps or devices that keep the tongue in place may reduce snoring
- eating a healthful, balanced diet and exercising
- avoiding alcohol before bed
- sleeping on the side rather than on the stomach or back
Diabetes is a long-term health condition [that affects](https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/) how efficiently the body turns food into energy.
When a person eats food, their pancreas releases insulin, which allows blood sugar into the cells so the body can use it for energy.
In type 1 diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
Researchers believe that a lack of insulin makes the body rely on fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. This causes chemical changes that may lead to an increase in fatigue.
It is also possible that people may experience psychological fatigue.
Researchers believe that the inability to manage diabetes without medication may lead to a sense of fatigue. When people experience fatigue, they are less likely to manage their condition. This can lead to a cycle of tiredness and distress.
Treatment
The treatment options for diabetes [include](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/insulin-medicines-treatments):
- taking [insulin](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323387)
- managing blood sugar levels
- [eating](https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/healthy-living-with-diabetes)
a healthful, balanced [diet](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324416), and being physically active
- controlling cholesterol
Apart from treating and managing underlying conditions, one way to potentially to prevent fatigue is to ensure people practice good sleep hygiene.
Some tips for a good night’s sleep [include](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/good-nights-sleep):
- sleeping with a regular schedule
- relaxing before bed
- avoiding using electronic devices in the bedroom
- keeping the bedroom at a comfortable temperature and using low lighting in the evenings
- exercising during the day
- avoiding eating large meals before bed and drinking caffeine in the afternoon and evening
Making lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes may help people feel less tired during the day. These adjustments [include](https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/fatigue-older-adults):
- keeping a fatigue diary to note tiredness patterns
- exercising regularly
- avoiding napping for more than 30 minutes
- quitting smoking
- asking for help if they feel overwhelmed
People should contact a healthcare professional if they think their fatigue is a symptom of an underlying condition.
A person should also speak with a medical professional if their fatigue stops them from participating in typical daily activities, or negatively impacts their life.
A healthcare professional can share management tips, diagnose any underlying conditions, and suggest treatment plans.
Fatigue, or extreme tiredness, can be due to several conditions, including diabetes, depression, and fibromyalgia.
It can stop people from participating in their typical daily activities. However, by treating or managing this symptom, as well as any underlying conditions, people may go on to live their typical lives.
A doctor can recommend lifestyle changes and medical treatments to manage the conditions that trigger fatigue. |
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