NHS bosses have issued a warning about persistent fatigue and when it might be necessary to consult a GP. While it’s normal to feel tired occasionally, constant fatigue could indicate an underlying issue.
Common causes of tiredness and fatigue include lack of sleep or insomnia, stress, depression, or significant life changes such as the arrival of a new baby or bereavement.
Certain illnesses like Covid-19 and flu can also lead to fatigue, as can hormonal shifts and certain medications and treatments.
However, if you’ve been feeling constantly tired and can’t identify a specific cause, it could be a symptom of a medical condition.
For instance, daytime fatigue due to nocturnal awakenings, making gasping, snorting or choking sounds at night, and loud snoring are all symptoms of sleep apnoea.
Feeling extremely tired, experiencing excessive thirst, urinating more frequently than usual (especially at night), and weight loss could be signs of diabetes.
Severe fatigue lasting at least three months (making daily activities difficult), cognitive issues, and flu-like symptoms could be indicative of myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
However, it’s crucial not to self-diagnose. If you have any concerns, you should consult a GP.
According to NHS guidelines, you should schedule a GP appointment if you’ve been feeling fatigued for a few weeks without knowing why, or if you’re experiencing tiredness along with other symptoms.
If fatigue is affecting your daily life, it’s also advisable to see a doctor. A GP may refer you to a specialist if they’re unable to determine the cause of your tiredness or fatigue.
You might require tests, such as blood tests, to check for conditions like anaemia, diabetes or hyperthyroidism.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
