Fatigue is a feeling of weariness and tiredness accompanied by a lack of motivation and energy. Fatigue does not usually indicate a serious condition and often occurs as a normal response to physical exertion, increased emotional stress or lack of sleep. In some cases, however, fatigue can occur as a symptom of an underlying illness.
Iron-deficiency Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells to supply an adequate amount of oxygen to the tissues. Iron-deficiency anemia occurs as a result of a decrease in the number of red blood cells due to a decrease in the amount of iron in the body. The body's iron stores can become depleted as a result of blood loss, inadequate intake of dietary iron or an inability to properly absorb iron. Symptoms of iron-deficiency anemia include fatigue, decreased appetite, headache, irritability, pale skin, shortness of breath, brittle nails and weakness, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Iron-deficiency anemia can usually be successfully treated with an increase in iron intake through food or supplements. In the case of severe blood loss, blood transfusions may be needed.
Hashimoto's Disease
The thyroid gland is a small gland responsible for producing and releasing hormones that aid in proper metabolism. Hashimoto's disease is the most common form of hypothyroidism, which is an underactive thyroid gland. The disease occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage. Symptoms of Hashimoto's disease include fatigue, weight gain, muscle aches, joint pain, pale skin, hoarse voice, constipation, increased blood cholesterol, enlarged thyroid gland and constipation. There is no cure for Hashimoto's disease, but synthetic thyroid hormones can be taken daily to prevent symptoms, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a disease characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be alleviated by any amount of sleep. In addition to fatigue, those with chronic fatigue syndrome also experience loss of memory, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, muscle and joint pain and headache. The exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome remains unknown but possible causes include depression, anemia, allergies, autoimmune disorders and previous viral infections, according to MayoClinic.com. Because there is no known single cause of chronic fatigue syndrome, treatment focuses on relieving individual symptoms. Treatment options include a variety of medications, behavioral therapy, increased exercise and avoiding physical and emotional stress as much as possible.
