Fatigue is the feeling of exhaustion or lack of energy. Most people experience fatigue at some point and improve its symptoms with sleep. It can be a normal response to emotional stress and poor nutrition. When men experience fatigue, it usually occurs from physical exertion, age, lifestyle and hormone levels. Fatigue can also occur from underlying medical conditions and cause troublesome problems if not treated. Symptoms of fatigue vary from person to person and may only occur temporarily.
Lifestyle Factors
Fatigue often results from lifestyle problems. Men may experience fatigue from stress, irritability, dehydration or lack of exercise. Lack of sleep is an obvious cause of fatigue and often treated by keeping a regular sleep schedule. Demanding work schedules among both men and women may also cause overwhelming stress and mental fatigue. Lack of exercise contributes to the problem.
Poor nutrition is another factor in fatigue because the body is not receiving the fuel it needs to function properly. The typical diet among Americans is too high in sodium, sugars and saturated fat. Most diets are too low in fruits, vegetables, fiber and calcium. Vitamins, minerals and proper nutrition are necessary for the function of bodily processes and maintaining energy levels.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a vital sex hormone responsible for the development of male sex organs and normal growth. Levels of testosterone in the body play an important role in sex drive and energy levels in men. When a male experiences deficiencies in testosterone, fatigue is a major symptom. Testosterone levels gradually decline in adulthood, but some men experience greater decrease than others do. Dr. Edwin Lichten of usdoctor.com explains that risks of low testosterone occur with heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke and prostate cancer. Lower testosterone levels can lead to changes in sleep patterns, sexual functioning, emotions and overall physiology.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body has an abnormally low number of red blood cells or red blood cells do not receive enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Fatigue and weakness are the most common symptoms of anemia because of decreased oxygen to body tissue. Various types of anemia affect the body, but the main causes are blood loss, decreased red blood cell production and increased red cell destruction, explains the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Most people experience weakness with anemia, as well as headache, pale complexion, difficulty concentrating and dizziness.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
When fatigue lasts more than six months and interferes with daily activities, it may be due to chronic fatigue syndrome. The debilitating disorder causes overwhelming fatigue and can worsen over time. The cause of the disorder is unknown but experts believe hormones, illness, hypotension, viral infections and certain medications are likely factors, according to the Mayo Clinic. Those with CFS experience extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest and may also have muscle pain, headaches and impaired memory or concentration.
