When you pull an allnighter, went all out at the gym, or have the flu, it’s normal to feel a sense of lethargy. But suffering from a constant lack of energy and ongoing fatigue is a whole different story, especially when you barely exert any physical or mental effort. If you are always experiencing episodes of weakness and exhaustion without reason, it may be time to check with your doctor.
The following are three of the most common diseases that could be the culprit behind your fatigue.
1. Diabetes
Every year, 1.4 million people are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Sugar or glucose fuels the body to function correctly, and those with type 2 diabetes can’t process the molecule accordingly, causing a glucose build-up in the blood. With the absence of energy fueled by simple sugars, the body will refuse to run smoothly, explaining why people with diabetes often experience episodes of fatigue as one of the first warning signs.
Aside from feeling weak and tired all the time, other signs of diabetes include excessive thirst, hunger, frequent urination, weight loss, mood swings, yeast infections, and blurred vision.
2. Anemia
Anemia is a chronic disease associated with a lack red blood cells, causing those with the disease to experience lethargy and shortness of breath. The triggers of anemia include an iron or vitamin deficiency, internal bleeding, or other chronic diseases such as cancer or kidney failure. Women are more susceptible to iron-deficiency anemia because of blood loss during the menstrual cycle, and the body’s need for more iron during pregnancy.
Exhaustion and weakness are the primary symptoms of anemia, but other symptoms include insomnia, inability to concentrate, heart palpitations, chest pains, and constant headaches.
3. Thyroid Disease
A thyroid condition is an autoimmune disease known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis associated with an increased risk for papillary thyroid cancer. When you have thyroid disease, even activities that require little to no physical effort can deplete your energy. The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland that sits low on the front of the neck, produces hormones that control your metabolism. Excessive thyroid hormones, otherwise known as hyperthyroidism, speeds up your metabolism, while a lack of thyroid hormones or hypothyroidism slows down your body’s ability to digest food and nutrients.
Hyperthyroidism causes weakness and muscle fatigue, especially in the thighs. Leg exercises such as brisk walking, bike riding, and hiking become increasingly difficult once diagnosed with the disease. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism also include weight loss, irregular menstrual flows, an increased heart rate, and a dry throat.
Hypothyroidism symptoms, on the other hand, include constant lack of energy, inability to concentrate, as well as muscle soreness without reason. Colds and chills, heavier and more frequent menstrual flows, weight gain, and constipation are also known symptoms of hypothyroidism.
Consult Your Doctor Today
The real culprit behind excessive exhaustion could be one of these serious health problems. If you are constantly feeling tired, consult your doctor as soon as possible. If your thyroid condition has evolved into cancer, call us for treatment recommendations.
