Persistent fatigue is a increasingly common condition we see in general practice characterized by a persistent feeling of physical or mental exhaustion, often accompanied by a lack of energy and motivation. It can be caused by various factors and can significantly impact a person’s daily life.

Physical fatigue refers to a sense of tiredness or weakness in the body, while mental fatigue is a feeling of cognitive exhaustion or difficulty concentrating. Fatigue can be acute, lasting for a short period of time, or chronic, persisting for several weeks or months.

There are several potential causes of fatigue, including:

1. Lack of Sleep: Inadequate sleep or poor sleep quality can lead to fatigue. Conditions such as insomnia, sleep apnoea, or restless leg syndrome can disrupt sleep patterns and contribute to fatigue.
2. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices can contribute to fatigue, such as excessive physical exertion, lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption, and smoking.
3. Medical Conditions: Various medical conditions can cause fatigue, including chronic fatigue syndrome, long covid, fibromyalgia, anaemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders.
4. Psychological Factors: Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, and grief can lead to fatigue.
5. Medications and Treatments: Some medications, such as certain antidepressants or antihistamines, can cause drowsiness and fatigue as side effects. Additionally, medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy can also result in fatigue.

Managing fatigue involves addressing the underlying causes and making appropriate lifestyle changes. Here are some strategies that can help:

-Prioritize Sleep: Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a sleep-friendly environment. Practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding electronic devices before bed and maintaining a comfortable sleep environment.
-Balanced diet and optimal weight maintenance: Eat a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and drinks. 
-Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical exercise, as it can boost energy levels and improve sleep quality. Start with gentle activities and gradually increase intensity as tolerated.
-Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, deep breathing, and engaging in activities you enjoy.
-Time Management: Prioritize tasks, delegate when possible, and incorporate breaks into your daily routine to avoid overexertion.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating medical condition characterized by profound fatigue that persists for at least six months or longer. The fatigue experienced in CFS is not relieved by rest and is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as cognitive impairment (often referred to as “brain fog”), muscle and joint pain, sleep disturbances, headaches, and a worsening of symptoms after physical or mental exertion, known as post-exertional malaise.

The exact cause of CFS remains unknown, and there is ongoing research to better understand its underlying mechanisms. It is believed to be a multifactorial condition, involving a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. CFS can occur suddenly or develop gradually, and it can significantly impact a person’s ability to engage in daily activities, work, and social relationships.

Action for ME (see link above)- is a great website offering useful support and advice on:

• what the condition is
• managing symptoms
• practical tips on living with the condition
• further information on support and services