"Normal fatigue is a consequence of physical or mental exertion, sleepless nights or stress and usually goes away with rest. However, when fatigue lasts longer than four weeks, does not go away even after rest and begins to disrupt daily activities - this is a signal that something is wrong," said Dr. Marija Radević, the appointed adult doctor at the Podgorica Health Center, on Boje jutra TV Vijestie.
What could be the cause?
Among the most common physical causes of chronic fatigue are:
- Anemia – patients often experience dizziness, cold hands and feet, rapid heartbeat, and increased fatigue.
- Hormonal imbalance, especially thyroid disorders – in addition to fatigue, there is also drowsiness, weight gain, dry skin, brittle nails and a feeling of "mental fog".
- Depression and anxiety – when laboratory findings are normal, the causes may be psychological in nature.
- Viral infections – long-term fatigue is sometimes the result of viral infections that were not sufficiently recognized or that have dragged on over time.
Sleep – quantity or quality?
"Sleep is key. Although between 7 and 9 hours of sleep is recommended, it is much more important that the sleep is uninterrupted and deep. If a person sleeps for 8 hours but wakes up feeling sleepy, often during the night, this indicates poor sleep quality," the doctor points out.
Lack of sleep or poor quality sleep can be a result of so-called digital fatigue, caused by using electronic devices before bed. Blue light disrupts the natural rhythm of sleep, and the brain remains active and overloaded.
Nutrition and hydration – forgotten sources of energy
"Skipping meals, consuming too much sugar, and dehydration – all of these directly affect energy levels," warns Dr. Radević. He advises starting the day with a protein-rich breakfast, consuming complex carbohydrates and healthy fats, and drinking plenty of fluids – especially on warmer days or when you drink a lot of coffee.
When and what tests should be done?
If the feeling of fatigue lasts for more than a month and cannot be explained by lifestyle, laboratory testing is recommended. Basic tests include:
- Blood count, CRP, sedimentation rate
- Iron and ferritin
- Vitamin D, B12 i folat
- Thyroid hormones and cortisol
- Blood glucose, renal and hepatic parameters
"Chronic fatigue should not be ignored. Before we look for the cause in the laboratory, it is important to ask ourselves - are we getting enough sleep, are we eating properly, are we engaging in physical activity, and are we finding time for ourselves?" says Dr. Radević.
Sometimes the first step towards a solution is just that – to stop, listen to our own body, and admit to ourselves that constant fatigue is not something we have to put up with.
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