Feeling Fatigued Every Single Day? Here's What Could Be Causing It

A late night, a busy week at work, or poor sleep can leave you drained. But if you are waking up exhausted every now and then, struggling to stay alert through the afternoon, or constantly relying on caffeine to function, something more could be going on. Daily fatigue is not just about feeling sleepy. It is a persistent lack of energy that does not improve with rest. And while it is common, it should not be ignored. According to the BMJ journal, fatigue is poorly defined subjective symptom, requiring careful questioning to clarify whether a person's complaint of "tiredness," or "exhaustion" reflects a true lack of physical energy, diminished motivation, or simply sleepiness.

Reason behind feeling fatigued everyday

Here are some of the most common reasons you might be feeling fatigued every single day.

1. Poor quality sleep

According to a study published by StatPearls Publishing during sleep, the body carries out essential restorative functions, such as releasing growth hormones and repairing and regenerating cells. As a result, most people wake from a night of quality sleep feeling refreshed, alert, and energised.

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You might be getting seven or eight hours in bed, but that does not always mean restorative sleep. Frequent night-time awakenings, sleep apnoea, excessive screen time before bed, or stress can all disrupt deep sleep cycles. Without proper restorative sleep, your body cannot repair tissues, regulate hormones or recharge the brain effectively.

2. Iron deficiency or anaemia

A study in the journal Nutrients says low iron levels are one of the most common medical causes of fatigue, especially in women. As Iron is essential for producing haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body. When iron levels are low, tissues and muscles receive less oxygen, leaving you feeling weak and breathless. Other signs may include pale skin, hair thinning, headaches or feeling dizzy when standing up. It is advised to get a simple blood test can check for anaemia.

3. Thyroid imbalance

The main function of the thyroid gland is to control metabolism, which influences how your body uses energy. An underactive thyroid, known as hypothyroidism, slows down bodily processes. This can lead to fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, constipation and feeling unusually cold. Because symptoms develop gradually, many people attribute them to ageing or stress. Blood tests can quickly identify thyroid problems.

4. Chronic stress and burnout

Mental fatigue can be just as draining as physical exhaustion. When you are under prolonged stress, your body produces higher levels of cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this constant state of alertness can leave you feeling depleted. Burnout often shows up as emotional exhaustion, irritability, lack of motivation and poor concentration. You may feel tired but wired, unable to fully relax. Recognising emotional overload is the first step toward recovery.

5. Dehydration

Water is essential in maintaining overall well-being. So, mild dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. If you are not drinking enough fluids, especially in warm weather or after exercise, your blood volume decreases slightly. This forces your heart to work harder to pump oxygen and nutrients around the body. Try increasing your water intake and see if your energy improves.

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6. Poor nutrition

Missing your meals or relying on food that has been processed or too much sugar may cause energy crashes. The body requires continuous fueling, which is obtained from balanced eating that contains protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Refined sugars cause an instant surge of glucose followed by an equally sharp crash. As per a stdy in Nutrients journal the levels of vitamin B12 and vitamin D are also linked to chronic fatigue.

7. Sedentary lifestyle

It may sound counterintuitive, but not moving enough can make you feel more tired. Regular physical activity improves circulation, boosts mood and enhances sleep quality. Sitting for long hours slows metabolism and reduces oxygen flow, contributing to sluggishness. Even a daily 20-minute walk can make a noticeable difference.

8. Underlying medical conditions

According to a study in the journal Diabetes Therapy, in diabetes, the body doesn't have enough insulin to use carbohydrates properly for energy. When this happens, the body switches to burning fat instead. But once the stored sugar runs out, the process of making energy becomes less efficient. The machinery that normally produces energy slows down, so the body can't keep up with its usual energy needs. This slowdown is one reason why people with diabetes often feel tired or fatigued. If fatigue is accompanied by unexplained weight changes, persistent pain, swelling, frequent infections, or mood changes, it is important to seek medical advice.

When should you see a doctor?

If fatigue lasts more than a few weeks, interferes with daily life, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare professional. Blood tests and a thorough history can often identify the cause. It is pertinent to note that feeling tired occasionally is normal. Feeling exhausted every single day is not.

Fatigue is your body's way of signalling that something needs attention. Whether it is sleep, nutrition, stress management or an underlying health issue, identifying the cause can help you regain your energy.

Do not normalise constant exhaustion. With the right support and small lifestyle changes, many people find their energy improves significantly. Your body is designed to function with vitality, not permanent fatigue.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.