Certain genetic diseases can cause chronic fatigue. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), gene mutations can cause genetic diseases or disorders, or they can be inherited or passed down through a family. The NIH states that in people with a family history of genetic disease, genetic testing can help determine the likelihood of having an affected child.
Celiac Disease
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), a division of the NIH, celiac disease is a genetic digestive disease that targets the small intestine and impairs nutrient absorption. A person with celiac disease is unable to tolerate gluten, a protein found primarily in wheat, rye and barley but also in medicines, vitamins and lip balms. The NIDDK states that celiac disease-related symptoms vary between individuals, and that children are more likely to experience digestive symptoms than adults. Common symptoms associated with celiac disease in adults include fatigue, unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, joint pain, osteoporosis, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, canker sores in the mouth and depression or anxiety.
Hemochromatosis
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, a division of the NIH, states that hemochromatosis is a disease associated with excessive iron accumulation. Too much iron is toxic to a person's body. Excessive iron accumulation can damage the organs and cause organ failure. Although iron can build up in most of the body's organs, the liver, heart and pancreas are most commonly affected. According to the Mayo Clinic, hemochromatosis-related organ damage can lead to life-threatening conditions, including cancer, heart problems and liver disease. Signs and symptoms of hemochromatosis often manifest in midlife, although they may arise earlier. Common symptoms associated with hemochromatosis include chronic fatigue, abdominal pain, low thyroid function and elevated blood sugar levels.
Cystic Fibrosis
According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF), a non-profit organization dedicated to finding a cure and ways to control this genetic disease, cystic fibrosis affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 American children and adults. Cystic fibrosis is caused by a defective gene and its protein products, and the disease is characterized by a thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and results in life-threatening lung infections. The mucus also impairs pancreas function, which limits the body's ability to break down food and use its nutrients. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists common cystic fibrosis-related signs and symptoms, including fatigue, wheezing, abdominal pain, dehydration, flatulence, weight loss, chronic sinusitis and asthma.
