Feeling tired now and then can be completely normal, but if you find yourself feeling consistently tired for long periods of time, it may be time to talk to your health care provider.

Fatigue can be caused by any number of reasons, many of them minor, such as a strenuous day of work, or high-intensity exercise. However, more persistent fatigue can be the first sign of your body telling you something is wrong.

Many illnesses or even treatments have been known to cause fatigue, such as:

• Certain medications, such as antidepressants or pain medications
• Infections
• Anemia
• Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders

Emotions can also be the cause of fatigue. Going through periods of anxiety, depression, grief, or even just every day stress can make you feel more tired than normal. These emotions can also contribute to not getting enough sleep, further adding on to the fatigue.

There are even lifestyle habits that could be making you feel more tired, such as not getting enough nutrients in your diet, having too much caffeine or alcohol, or getting too much, or even not enough exercise.

If you find yourself feeling tired for several weeks with no relief, it may be time to contact your healthcare provider. They can ask questions about your sleep, lifestyle, appetite, and other factors to get to the root of your fatigue.

Having your provider provide a treatment plan can help you fight your fatigue and find a new quality of life with newfound energy!