väsimus

Väsimus is the Estonian word for fatigue. It describes a subjective feeling of tiredness, reduced energy, and diminished motivation that can limit daily functioning. It is a symptom rather than a disease and can be acute or chronic.

Acute väsimus lasts hours to days and often relates to temporary factors such as sleep loss or stress. Chronic väsimus persists for weeks or months and may indicate an underlying medical condition or psychosocial stressors. Fatigue can be physical, mental, or a combination of both.

Common reversible causes include insufficient sleep, poor nutrition, dehydration, excessive physical or mental exertion, and shift work. Medical conditions such as sleep disorders (insomnia, sleep apnea), anemia, thyroid disease, diabetes, infections, and chronic diseases can cause fatigue. Medications and substance use (alcohol, sedatives) can also contribute.

Evaluation typically begins with a medical history and physical examination, followed by targeted laboratory tests to screen for anemia, iron deficiency, vitamin B12, thyroid function, infections, and other conditions. Clinicians assess for red flags (unexpected weight loss, fever, neurologic symptoms) and screen for depression and anxiety, which frequently accompany fatigue.

Management focuses on treating any underlying condition and addressing modifiable factors. Sleep hygiene, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, hydration, and stress management can help. Psychological approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and energy-conservation strategies may aid people with chronic fatigue. Pharmacologic treatment is reserved for diagnosed medical causes.

Väsimus is a common symptom worldwide and is more prevalent in women and older adults. Its course varies; some episodes resolve with lifestyle changes or treatment of a condition, while others may become chronic.