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In short Common causes What to try first When to see a clinician When it is urgent Common questions SourcesTiredness is often from sleep, stress, or activity. If you have been tired for weeks and rest does not help, see a clinician.
MedlinePlus describes fatigue as a feeling of weariness or lack of energy that can interfere with daily life.
Common causes
Fatigue can be a normal response to physical activity, emotional stress, boredom, or lack of sleep. It can also be a sign of a physical or mental health condition, so persistent tiredness is worth checking.
What to try first
Keep a regular sleep schedule, move your body most days, eat regular meals, and cut back on caffeine late in the day and on alcohol. MedlinePlus also lists stopping smoking among the steps that can help.
When to see a clinician
If fatigue does not get better after several weeks, call your provider. They will ask about your sleep, daily activities, appetite, and exercise, will likely do a physical exam, and may order lab tests. Fatigue that lasts a long time, does not improve with rest, and limits ordinary activity can be a sign of conditions such as ME/CFS.
When it is urgent
Get urgent care for fatigue with chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, severe weakness on one side, or thoughts of harming yourself. In the US, call or text 988 for a mental health crisis.
Common questions
Why am I always tired?
Common reasons are poor sleep, stress, and low activity. It can also be a sign of a physical or mental health condition, especially if it lasts for weeks.
When should I see a doctor about fatigue?
If it does not get better after several weeks, MedlinePlus says to call your provider.
What will a doctor check?
They will ask about sleep, daily activities, appetite, and exercise, do a physical exam, and may order lab tests.
What is ME/CFS?
A disorder with overwhelming fatigue that lasts a long time, does not get better with rest, and limits ordinary activity, according to MedlinePlus.
Can an AI doctor help with tiredness?
Pymander's AI doctor can ask the follow-up questions a clinician would and help you decide what to ask at a visit. It is not a licensed doctor.