Tiredness

Tiredness is a subjective feeling of needing rest or sleep. It is different from sleepiness, which is the urge to fall asleep, and from fatigue, a more persistent or overwhelming sense of exhaustion. Tiredness can arise after a single night of poor sleep or physical exertion, but it can also indicate an underlying medical or psychological condition if it lasts longer than a few weeks.

Common causes include inadequate or poor-quality sleep, irregular sleep schedules, and high stress or mental health concerns such as anxiety or depression. Lifestyle factors like alcohol or excessive caffeine, dehydration, and poor nutrition can contribute. Medical conditions such as anemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, sleep disorders (for example, sleep apnea or insomnia), chronic pain, infections, and inflammatory or autoimmune diseases can also cause persistent tiredness. Certain medications and substances, including sedatives and some allergy or cold medicines, may add to daytime tiredness.

Persistent tiredness can impair concentration, mood, and judgment, and may increase the risk of accidents or errors. It can also affect work or school performance and relationships.

Evaluation and management focus on identifying and treating reversible causes. A healthcare provider may review sleep habits, medications, and lifestyle factors, and order tests such as a complete blood count, iron studies, thyroid function, and vitamin levels. In cases suggesting a sleep disorder, insomnia, or chronic fatigue syndrome, further assessments like a sleep study may be recommended.

Management emphasizes sleep hygiene and healthy routines: regular sleep and wake times, a comfortable sleep environment, limited screen time before bed, avoiding heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol late in the day, regular physical activity, and balanced hydration and nutrition. Treating any underlying condition, along with stress management and mental health support, can reduce tiredness. If tiredness is persistent or worsening, professional medical advice should be sought.