Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness and lack of energy that often causes a decrease in motivation. Although fatigue is accompanied by a strong desire to sleep, MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, notes that it differs from drowsiness. Fatigue may occur occasionally as a normal response to increased physical demands or stress. When fatigue is intense or persistent, it can indicate the presence of an underlying physical condition.
Insomnia
Insomnia is a sleep condition characterized by the inability to fall asleep or stay asleep. Insomnia usually occurs as a secondary condition caused by stress, anxiety, depression, certain medications, use of caffeine or alcohol and certain medical conditions, according to the MayoClinic.com. In addition to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, other symptoms of insomnia include fatigue during the day, not feeling well rested, irritability, depression, difficulty concentrating, headaches, nausea and anxiety. If the underlying cause of insomnia is found, treatment focuses on correcting that condition. In cases where a cause cannot be found, behavioral therapy, sleeping medications and following a regular sleeping pattern can be helpful in relieving the condition.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a medical condition characterized by persistent fatigue that cannot be alleviated with any amount of sleep and does not occur as a symptom of another underlying disease. In addition to fatigue, other symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include difficulty concentrating, confusion, headaches, joint pain, muscle aches, muscle weakness, low fever and sore throat. Because there is no known cause for chronic fatigue syndrome, treatment for the condition can be difficult. Treatment usually aims at relieving individual symptoms and involves a combination of a healthy diet, medications, behavioral therapy and sleep management techniques, according to MedlinePlus. Mild physical activity may also be beneficial for those with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland cannot make enough thyroid hormones to effectively meet the body's needs. Thyroid hormones aid in proper metabolism, regulation of body temperature, nervous system function, muscle strength, weight and cholesterol levels. Without them, the body cannot carry out these functions properly. This results in fatigue, weight gain, joint and muscle pain, puffiness in the face, constipation, thinning hair, a decrease in sweat production and a slow heart rate. Hypothyroidism can occur as a result of inflammation of the thyroid gland, autoimmune diseases, surgical removal of the thyroid gland, radiation therapy and certain medications. There is no cure for hypothyroidism, but the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service notes that lifetime treatment with synthetic thyroid hormones can effectively control symptoms.
