Feeling Tired Lately? You’re Not Alone
Many adults perceive fatigue as a part of the rigors of adult life or getting older. But tiredness is a common issue not being addressed by Americans. Over 40 million Americans suffer from fatigue or a feeling of tiredness. Some even report sleepiness even after 7-8 hours of sleep. By some estimates, up to 33% of persons have low energy between the ages of 40-60. So what could be the underlying cause?
Sluggish side effects
Some underlying medical issues, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can cause feelings of fatigue. Additionally, anemia can cause a drop in energy due to fewer red blood cells or cells with less hemoglobin. About 25% of the world population has or may develop anemia due to prolonged iron deficiency. Heart conditions can also contribute to fatigue, as less blood is being circulated throughout the body. These conditions are more likely to affect someone aged 50 and older.
Is it menopause?
Fatigue is more noticeable in women experiencing menopause. Menopause is the point where a woman’s period stops. At this point, women are unable to become pregnant naturally. The body slows down on the production of crucial hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are critical for reproduction and several bodily functions, including regulating energy levels. Since the average age of menopause is 52, this could explain a dip in energy. At the same time, being constantly tired during menopause may not be natural. Speak with a doctor if fatigue is affecting the quality of life.
Your medication matters
Some medications prescribed for other medical issues can cause fatigue. These include antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure medication. Some of the ingredients in these drugs are also present in sleeping medication. While they may not create fatigue in everyone, these drugs may affect persons 50 and over differently. Consult a doctor once if any prescribed medication is the suspected source of tiredness.
Are you getting those Zs?
Low sleep quality adds to feeling tired during the day. Check for conditions that may affect the quality of sleep. Sleep apnea, a condition where persons stop breathing for short periods while sleeping, also contributes to feelings of tiredness. Other issues include an overactive bladder. Overactive bladders can cause multiple breaks in sleep, disturbing sleep quality.
Emotion and energy go hand in hand.
With work, business, family, and social responsibilities, stress can happen at any age. For persons 50 and over, stress significantly contributes to fatigue. With stress, the body responds by creating more hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline. If the body does not use these hormones, a lack of sleep can likely develop, leading to fatigue. Stress is not the only negative emotion to look out for. Depression, social anxiety, or grief are also directly related to feelings of fatigue.
Check your diet
An unhealthy diet may contribute to fatigue or drowsiness. Fried foods, sweets, and even caffeine impact how a person feels. Some foods create a spike in blood sugar. When blood sugar suddenly falls, persons can quickly become tired. With age, the body’s metabolism also slows down. The body cannot process foods rapidly enough to convert to energy. This shift can lead to chronic fatigue syndrome.
End low energy today
If fatigue is affecting the quality of life, speak with a doctor. Before consulting, keep a diary of daily activities. Note when feelings of tiredness may occur. Be sure to record diet, medication, or any additional symptoms. When consulting a doctor, the information can be used to pinpoint specific issues. From there, the doctor can then recommend the best alternative to have a more alert, productive day.