Why am I so tired?

The steps

1. A signal, not a diagnosis

   Fatigue is tiredness that does not get better with rest. healthdirect advises seeing your doctor if it lasts more than 2 weeks and is not getting better.

   Tiredness and fatigue

   Source: healthdirect Australia, Fatigue

2. Sleep comes first

   Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night. Caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, anxiety, depression and unhealthy sleep habits can all cause or worsen insomnia.

   Trouble sleeping

   Sources: healthdirect Australia, Sleep; Sleep Health Foundation, How much sleep do you really need?; healthdirect Australia, Insomnia

3. Snoring and sleepiness

   Loud snoring, waking up with a headache and daytime sleepiness can be signs of obstructive sleep apnoea. A doctor can arrange a sleep study, sometimes at home.

   Obstructive sleep apnoea

   Source: healthdirect Australia, Obstructive sleep apnoea

4. Check the oxygen carriers

   Anaemia is commonly caused by iron deficiency and can cause tiredness, weakness and pale skin. A full blood count and iron studies can check.

   Iron deficiency and anaemia

   Sources: healthdirect Australia, Anaemia; Pathology Tests Explained, Full blood count; Pathology Tests Explained, Iron studies

5. Check the thyroid

   An underactive thyroid can cause tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold, constipation and low mood. A blood test diagnoses it, and treatment replaces the missing hormone.

   Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

   Source: healthdirect Australia, Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

6. Mood matters too

   Feeling tired during the day and losing interest in activities you once enjoyed can be symptoms of depression lasting 2 weeks or more. Your GP is a good place to start.

   Depression

   Source: healthdirect Australia, Depression

Quiz