Constant Fatigue May Be a Sign of an Underlying Illness

25th March 2025

5 minutes read

Constant Fatigue May Be a Sign of an Underlying Illness

A doctor has issued a crucial warning for individuals who frequently experience unexplained fatigue, urging them to consider the possibility that they might be suffering from a hidden, often overlooked illness that could be more serious than they realize. This condition, which can leave people feeling completely drained, is not something that should be dismissed or ignored. While occasional fatigue, especially after physical exertion or a busy day, is typically not a cause for alarm, when the fatigue persists for weeks or even months, it may be an indication of a deeper, underlying medical condition that warrants medical attention.

Dr. Meleza Raizada, a respected general practitioner specializing in hormonal health within the National Health Service (NHS), has emphasized that individuals should seek medical help if they find themselves feeling excessively tired even after performing light physical activities. These activities could include something as simple as climbing a set of stairs or doing a mild yoga session. This ongoing exhaustion, despite minimal physical exertion, is a hallmark of a condition known as “post-exertion fatigue.”

This condition, which affects a significant number of individuals, is estimated to impact approximately 250,000 people in the United Kingdom alone, according to reports from The Daily Mail. The primary characteristics of post-exertion fatigue are severe and persistent issues with sleep, alongside cognitive difficulties that affect a person’s ability to think clearly, concentrate, and even remember simple tasks.

In some cases, individuals suffering from this condition find that their everyday lives are severely disrupted. They may experience significant difficulties performing routine activities, including work-related tasks and personal care. The fatigue may be so overwhelming that even the most basic activities feel like insurmountable challenges. The impact on quality of life can be immense, with many people reporting that they feel as though their lives are put on hold due to this debilitating condition. However, a worrying statistic from the Royal College of Surgeons reveals that only 10% of individuals experiencing symptoms of post-exertion fatigue ever receive an official diagnosis.

One of the reasons why this condition often goes undiagnosed is that its symptoms are frequently overlooked, misinterpreted, or attributed to other, less serious conditions. As Dr. Raizada pointed out, many patients do not connect their fatigue to a specific illness, and the symptoms may seem subtle or gradual in nature, which makes it difficult for them to seek help until it becomes too severe.

Dr. Raizada further elaborated on the condition in an interview with the Huffington Post UK, explaining that persistent fatigue that lasts longer than six months is one of the key diagnostic criteria for what is commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). However, she stressed that even fatigue lasting for just a few weeks should not be ignored, as it could still signal the onset of a more serious health issue that needs to be addressed.

Early medical intervention is critical. Dr. Raizada explained that by undergoing a thorough evaluation and some essential blood tests, doctors can help identify potential causes of the fatigue or, alternatively, rule out other possible conditions that might be contributing to the symptoms. This early detection could be crucial for preventing the condition from worsening and ensuring that appropriate steps are taken to manage it effectively.

In addition to the constant, overwhelming fatigue, individuals suffering from post-exertion fatigue may experience a variety of other symptoms. These can include cognitive difficulties such as persistent memory problems, an inability to focus, and trouble concentrating on tasks. Muscle and joint pain are also common, often with no apparent cause, which can make everyday movements feel more challenging and painful. Unexplained headaches, dizziness, or feelings of lightheadedness are also reported, along with heart palpitations that may cause further concern.

Dr. Raizada also pointed out that some individuals with this condition experience frequent sore throats or swollen glands, which could indicate an underlying immune system dysfunction. This is a particularly important symptom to note, as immune system imbalances can have widespread effects on the body, making it even harder for individuals to recover from physical exertion or stress.

While there is currently no known cure for chronic fatigue syndrome, Dr. Raizada reassured the public that there are treatment options available to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. For example, doctors may prescribe a range of medications to help alleviate some of the most debilitating symptoms, including the use of antidepressants, which can help manage the emotional toll that persistent fatigue can have on a person’s mental health. Additionally, physical therapy may be recommended to help individuals regain strength and endurance, while counseling or psychotherapy can assist in addressing the psychological impact of living with a long-term, invisible illness.

In some cases, a multidisciplinary approach is adopted, combining physical, psychological, and pharmacological treatments to help individuals manage their symptoms. The key to success in managing chronic fatigue syndrome lies in a personalized treatment plan that takes into account the unique needs and challenges of each patient. By closely monitoring the patient’s progress and adjusting treatments as necessary, doctors can help ensure that individuals receive the support they need to lead as normal a life as possible despite the challenges they face.

Ultimately, Dr. Raizada’s message is clear: fatigue that lingers for an extended period should not be dismissed as simply “being tired.” While it may seem like a minor issue at first, persistent fatigue can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires prompt medical attention. Seeking help early can help individuals find the right diagnosis, receive the necessary treatments, and begin the path toward managing their symptoms and improving their overall well-being.

In conclusion, if you or someone you know is experiencing ongoing fatigue that interferes with daily activities, it is important to take it seriously and consult a healthcare professional. Fatigue may seem like an innocent symptom, but it can often point to deeper, more complex health issues that need to be addressed. By paying attention to these warning signs, individuals can take proactive steps toward improving their health and well-being, ensuring that they don’t have to live with the debilitating effects of chronic fatigue syndrome.