Fatigue - Restore Health Clinic

What is fatigue?

Fatigue is a feeling of extreme physical or mental tiredness that can make even small tasks seem impossible. It's a nearly universal human experience - most of us have felt fatigued at some point.

There are two main types of fatigue:

• Physical fatigue occurs when muscles cannot continue contracting at their normal force or speed. Doing physical activity requires muscles to use ATP for energy. As ATP runs out, muscles lose their power and strength. This leads to feelings like heavy limbs, muscle weakness, and exhaustion.
• Mental fatigue involves difficulties with concentration, motivation, and mood. Mentally demanding tasks like studying drain mental energy over time. As mental reserves get depleted, people often feel distracted, impatient, or disengaged.

What causes fatigue?

Many factors can drain our physical and mental energy reserves:

• Lack of sleep
• Poor nutrition
• Dehydration
• Illness
• Stress
• Boredom
• Overexertion

Fortunately, fatigue is usually temporary. The body recuperates through rest and recovery. Getting adequate sleep, eating balanced meals, reducing stressors, and pacing activities helps prevent and alleviate tiredness.

However, chronic fatigue lasting over 6 months may indicate an underlying health condition - it's best checked by a doctor.

How to manage fatigue:

• Prioritize sleep - aim for 7-9 hours per night
• Eat nutritious foods and stay hydrated
• Take breaks before reaching exhaustion
• Alternate mentally and physically demanding tasks
• Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
• Consult a physician if fatigue persists

While tiring at times, fatigue reminds us of our human limitations. Respecting our natural cycles by resting and restoring energy ultimately helps us live balanced, healthy lives.

For more information on managing fatigue, you can visit Restore Health Clinic.