Fatigue: When Is It More Than Just Being Tired?
December 15, 2025Everyone feels tired from time to time after a long workday, a stretch of poor sleep, or a busy season of life. But when exhaustion becomes persistent, overwhelming, or out of character for you, it may be a sign that something more is going on.
Understanding the difference between normal tiredness and fatigue that signals a medical issue can help you protect your health and obtain the necessary support.
Tiredness vs. Fatigue: What’s the Difference?
Normal Tiredness
This type of tiredness usually has a clear cause:
- A late night
- A demanding week
- Stress or physical exertion
- And importantly, it typically improves with rest, sleep, or downtime.
Fatigue
Fatigue is different. It’s a deep, ongoing sense of exhaustion that:
- Doesn’t improve with rest
- Interferes with daily activities
- Feels disproportionate to your level of activity
Fatigue can be physical, mental, or a combination of both, and it’s often a sign that your body is trying to tell you something important.
🩺 Common Medical Causes of Fatigue 🩺
Fatigue can stem from many underlying conditions. Some are simple to treat; others require ongoing care. Here are some of the most common causes:
When your body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells, you may feel weak, lightheaded, or constantly tired.
Both hypothyroidism (low thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can disrupt energy levels.
This condition causes breathing interruptions during sleep, preventing deep, restorative rest—even if you think you slept all night.
Mental health conditions frequently cause physical fatigue, trouble concentrating, and lack of motivation.
Illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, or long-term infections can leave your body depleted for weeks.
Conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, or autoimmune diseases may all cause persistent fatigue.
Some medications, especially those for allergies, blood pressure, pain, or anxiety, can contribute to drowsiness or fatigue.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, you’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the most common reasons people visit their primary care provider.
Fatigue is a common symptom of not getting or absorbing enough of certain vitamins, especially vitamins B12 and D.
Red Flags: When Fatigue Needs Medical Attention
While occasional tiredness is normal, certain symptoms suggest it’s time to schedule an appointment with a provider.
Contact your primary care provider if you notice:
- Fatigue lasting more than two weeks
- Exhaustion that interferes with daily life
- Trouble focusing or staying awake during routine activities
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
- Frequent headaches
- Fever, night sweats, or signs of infection
- Mood changes like sadness, irritability, or anxiety
- Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
- Increased thirst, hunger, or urination
- Changes in menstrual cycles
These symptoms can indicate underlying issues that warrant timely evaluation and care.
How Your Primary Care Provider Can Help
Your primary care provider (PCP) is the best starting point when fatigue becomes ongoing or concerning. They can:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Check your medications for possible side effects
- Order bloodwork to evaluate anemia, thyroid function, vitamin levels, and more
- Screen for sleep apnea or mental health concerns
- Identify chronic conditions that may be contributing to fatigue
- Create a personalized plan to help restore your energy
Many causes of fatigue are highly treatable, and early evaluation can help you feel better faster.
🌟 You Don’t Have to Push Through Fatigue Alone 🌟
Chronic fatigue is not something you should simply “learn to live with.” Your energy, mood, and daily functioning all matter, and you deserve to feel your best.
If you’re struggling with ongoing fatigue, your St. Mary’s primary care team is here to listen, evaluate, and help you find answers. A simple conversation with your PCP can be the first step toward renewed energy and better health.
