Why do I feel tired?
Exhausted or tired? We tell you why you feel so and what exhaustion can lead to
30
Nov
2011
Lately you've been so exhausted you can barely get through your morning routine. By mid-afternoon your body feels like a lead weight, and you're ready for a nap.
Why are you so tired all of the time?
Fatigue can have many causes. It may be related to stress, eating habits or medication. Or it may be the sign of a too hectic schedule. Being tired all of the time may be a sign of an underlying medical problem as well.
How fatigue effects us
Stress and anxiety: Anxiety can also cause fatigue. If worrying is keeping you from relaxing, you're probably not getting the rest you need.
Lack of sleep: One of the chief causes of fatigue is lack of sleep. You may not go to bed early enough. Or more likely, you go to bed but can't sleep well. As you get older, it becomes harder to get uninterrupted sleep. In addition, health problems may interfere with sound sleep.
Inactivity: You're too tired to exercise, so you don't. But then when you do exert yourself, you tire easily because you're out of shape. Boredom also can make you feel sluggish. If you're spending hours in front of the TV, you're not putting any demands on your body, and it may continually run on low energy.
Eating habits: If you're not eating properly or drinking enough fluids, your body isn't getting the fuel it needs for energy. Trying to remedy this with caffeine can backfire, especially if you consume it late in the day and it interferes with your sleep. Some people can feel caffeine's effects for up to 10 hours.
Certain medications: Some heart medications — especially beta blockers — anti-anxiety drugs and anti-histamines can cause fatigue. In addition, some cold medications and pain relievers contain caffeine and other stimulants that can interfere with your sleep.
