Are you constantly hitting the snooze button before actually jumping out of bed because your body is not allowing it? Are you someone battling afternoon fatigue with extra caffeine, and feeling drained yet restless at night? It's easy to brush off these experiences as typical, but perpetual tiredness isn't the norm we're meant to accept. Feeling exhausted regularly isn't just a passing phase—it could signal an underlying issue that needs attention.

 

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The reality is, our bodies aren't wired to be constantly fatigued. If you're constantly feeling low on energy and worn out, it's crucial to seek guidance from your doctor. Identifying the root cause of your exhaustion is the first step toward reclaiming your vitality. Equipping yourself with the right knowledge to discuss your concerns with your doctor empowers you to advocate effectively for your health.

 

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Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A CBC test helps evaluate overall health by measuring various components in the blood, including red and white blood cells and haemoglobin. It can uncover issues like anaemia, infections, or other blood-related conditions contributing to fatigue. For instance, low red blood cells might mean you're not getting enough oxygen to your body, making you feel tired.

 

Also, too many white blood cells might indicate an ongoing infection or inflammation in your body, which could be the cause of tiredness. On the other hand, having too few white blood cells might weaken your immune system and make you more prone to infections.

 

Moreover, a CBC test can also identify certain conditions that might not directly cause fatigue but could contribute to it. It helps doctors get a better picture of your health. If there's something off in your blood count, it could be a clue to what's making you feel constantly exhausted.

 

Thyroid Function Tests

Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, can lead to persistent tiredness. When your thyroid gland doesn't make enough hormones, your body's pituitary gland tries to fix it by making more TSH. This leads to tiredness, weight gain, dry skin, constipation, feeling cold, hair loss, and irregular periods. These are signs of hypothyroidism.

 

Another important hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland is T4, also known as thyroxine. This hormone makes up 90 per cent of the thyroid hormones. If you are experiencing extreme fatigue, consider getting the free t4 and free t3 tests done along with other tests. Tests measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), T3, and T4 levels can identify thyroid imbalances affecting energy levels.

 

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Vitamin and Mineral Levels

According to The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2020 report, 14 per cent of India's population is undernourished. The report states 189.2 million people have nutritional deficiencies and over 30 per cent of the children aged under five in India are stunted.

 

Many times it is not an underlying condition but deficiencies of essential vitamins and minerals that cause fatigue. Deficiencies in essential vitamins like B12, D, as well as minerals such as magnesium and iron could be one of them. Iron deficiency causes anaemia and fatigue is the hallmark symptom of anaemia. This is so because if you are anaemic, your body will draw upon iron it has stored in tissue. A blood test can help identify specific deficiencies. For instance, low levels of vitamin B12, mostly found with those following a vegetarian diet, older adults, or those with digestive issues, can lead to fatigue and lethargy. Other symptoms include weakness, headaches, confusion and feeling of pins and needles usually in hands and feet.

 

Supplementing these deficiencies under the guidance of a doctor can significantly improve energy levels and alleviate persistent tiredness. Similarly, inadequate levels of vitamin D, often linked to limited sun exposure or certain medical conditions and iron deficiencies, particularly common among menstruating women, can also contribute to chronic fatigue. Vitamin D deficiency can affect your bone health, mood, sleep and immunity. Addressing these deficiencies through appropriate supplements and dietary modifications can help in combating body fatigue.

 

Cortisol Testing

Stress not only affects our mental health but physical health too. High levels of stress can cause imbalances in cortisol level and can lead to chronic fatigue.

 

Additionally, cortisol also helps to break down food like proteins, fats and sugars. It keeps blood pressure steady and helps the immune system stay in check. A cortisol test assesses cortisol levels at different times of the day and provides insights into the body's stress response. Elevated or reduced cortisol levels can disrupt your energy equilibrium, leading to persistent tiredness. By understanding your cortisol patterns, doctors can tailor interventions such as lifestyle changes, stress management, or hormonal therapies to rebalance your body's stress response and alleviate chronic fatigue.

 

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HbA1c Testing

HbA1c, or glycated haemoglobin, is a blood test that measures average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. High or fluctuating blood sugar levels are often an indicator of conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance. These underlying conditions can contribute to chronic fatigue. This test helps identify potential glucose imbalances and guides your doctor in formulating an appropriate treatment plan to address the underlying condition.

 

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a series of tests that assess kidney function, blood sugar, electrolyte balance and liver function, which could influence fatigue. It also checks electrolyte levels such as sodium, potassium, and calcium, and measures liver enzymes like ALT, AST, and ALP to determine liver function. The test for kidneys include blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine. These organs play a pivotal role in performing various body functions. Any malfunctioning in any of the organs will lead to feeling exhausted and lethargic.

 

Understanding the root cause is the first step toward managing and treating persistent tiredness effectively. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor before undergoing any testing and let the doctor examine your health condition after considering your health records and previous history.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

Regular health checks are essential for everyone, but they are particularly important for individuals who are at risk of or already have any underlying condition. Taking regular health checks can help detect the condition at an early stage when it is easier to manage and treat. With the UR.Life HRA, we help you to invest in your well-being through seamless interventions and targeted medical treatments. Our holistic wellness approach caters to all aspects of your well-being. We ensure that you can bring your whole self to work.

With our medical professionals by your side, routine health check-ups will never be an issue. Advanced laboratory technologies back UR.Life’s Occupational Health Centers (OHC), and with highly qualified experts/technicians, we’re committed to delivering trusted and quality recommendations, modifications and advice to you.