Constant fatigue is defined by Mayo Clinic as chronic tiredness and weariness that results in a lack of energy and an inability to concentrate. Fatigue is accompanied by an intense lack of motivation and a strong desire to sleep, although sleep does not alleviate chronic fatigue. Fatigue is felt by almost everyone at some point, but constant fatigue can indicate underlying conditions or nutritional deficiencies.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by constant fatigue that is not a direct symptom of other conditions and cannot be relieved by any amount of sleep. The top two theories of the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome include Epstein-Barr infection or human herpes virus-6 and an autoimmune disorder, according to Medline Plus. Age, stress, environment and previous illness may also contribute to the development of the syndrome. In addition to constant fatigue, those with chronic fatigue syndrome also experience headaches, joint pain, low fever, muscle aches, muscle weakness, sore throat and difficulty concentrating. Depression and other psychological problems may also develop. Because the exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, treatment is aimed at alleviating specific symptoms. Often, treatment consists of a combination of medications, therapy, stress avoidance and a balanced, healthy diet. Medline Plus also notes that relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation may be helpful in managing fatigue.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
One of the building blocks of a red blood cell is an iron-rich protein called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the area of the red blood cell that binds oxygen and makes it possible for the red blood cell to deliver that oxygen to the tissues in the body. When there are low levels of iron in the body, hemoglobin cannot form and red blood cells cannot be made. Without an adequate number of red blood cells, the tissues do not receive enough oxygen. This leads to a condition called iron-deficiency anemia. There are three reasons for low iron levels: blood loss, inadequate iron intake and inability to absorb iron, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia include constant fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold extremities, pale skin, brittle nails, an enlarged spleen and chest pain. Treatment for iron-deficiency anemia depends on the reason for low iron. Possible treatment options include medications, increased iron intake and iron supplements. In those with severe iron-deficiency anemia due to blood loss, blood transfusions may be necessary.
Hashimoto's Disease
The thyroid gland belongs to the endocrine system and is responsible for producing hormones that are important for maintaining proper body functions. Hashimoto's disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland and causes inflammation and destruction, which leads to malfunction. According to Mayo Clinic, Hashimoto's disease is the most common form of hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. The disease develops gradually and when the thyroid gland has been significantly damaged, symptoms arise. These symptoms include constant fatigue, sluggishness, constipation, pale skin, swollen face, muscle pain, muscle weakness and occasionally, unexplained weight gain. Once the thyroid gland is damaged, it cannot be fixed. Because of this, treatment for Hashimoto's disease that has caused thyroid damage consists of a commitment to taking oral synthetic thyroid hormones daily.
