Fatigue: Beyond Exhaustion in the Modern World
BY: Neighbors’ Consejo|
In the ever-accelerated pace of modern life, fatigue emerges as a silent epidemic, weaving its subtle yet profound impact on societies worldwide. This elusive adversary transcends mere physical exhaustion, infiltrating the realms of mental and emotional wellbeing, thereby challenging our traditional understandings of health and productivity. As we delve into the intricate tapestry of causes, manifestations, and consequences of fatigue, it becomes evident that this condition is not a symptom to be alleviated but a critical signal from our bodies urging a reevaluation of our lifestyles, work ethics, and societal norms.
Fatigue often occurs along with other symptoms, such as:
- Depression and lack of desire to do the activities you once enjoyed.
- Trouble concentrating or focusing.
- Very low energy and motivation.
- Nervousness, anxiety, and irritability.
- Muscle pain and weakness.
According to Medical News Today, there are two main types of fatigue: physical and mental.
- Physical: A person with physical fatigue may find it physically hard to do the things they usually do, such as climb the stairs. Symptoms include muscle weakness, and diagnosis may involve completing a strength test.
- Mental: A person may find it harder to concentrate on things and stay focused. They may feel sleepy or have difficulty staying awake while working.
Cleveland Clinic considers that “many conditions, disorders, medications, and lifestyle factors can cause fatigue. Fatigue can be temporary, or it can be a chronic condition (lasting six months or more). You may be able to quickly fix fatigue by changing your diet, medications, exercise, or sleep habits. If an underlying medical condition is causing you fatigue, a healthcare provider can usually treat the condition or help you manage it.”
Mayo Clinic determines some lifestyle factors such as: Alcohol or drug use; eating poorly; medicines, such as ones used to treat allergies or coughs; not enough sleep; too little physical activity and too much physical activity. “For many people, fatigue is caused by a combination of lifestyle, social, psychological and general wellbeing issues rather than an underlying medical condition.”
The same source affirms, “Although fatigue is sometimes described as tiredness, it is more severe than being tired at the end of a long day or from hard physical exercise. Everyone can feel tired at times, but this is usually resolved with a nap or a few nights of good sleep.” To conclude, it is evident that while significant strides have been made in understanding fatigue, much remains to be explored in this complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. The pervasiveness of fatigue in today’s fast-paced society calls for increased awareness and understanding, encouraging individuals to seek help and adopt healthier lifestyles.
References
“Fatigue Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fatigue. Accessed 12 Apr. 2024.
professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Fatigue.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21206-fatigue. Accessed 12 Apr. 2024.
“Fatigue: Why Am I so Tired, and What Can I Do about It?” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248002#types. Accessed 12 Apr. 2024.
“Fatigue Causes.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Feb. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/fatigue/basics/causes/sym-20050894.
“Fatigue.” Better Health Channel, Department of Health & Human Services, 14 July 2004, www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/fatigue.Fatigue: Beyond Exhaustion in the Modern World