Tired? When You Should See Your Doctor

Dr. Cherry

We all have bouts of fatigue once in awhile. But when should you be concerned enough to see your doctor?

According to the Mayo Clinic, "sudden or persistent fatigue, despite adequate rest, may mean it's time for you to consult your doctor. Unrelenting exhaustion may be a sign of an underlying medical problem." See your doctor if you're extremely tired or unable to regain your energy after several weeks of increased rest. Medical causes of fatigue can include the following say Clinic experts:

• Anemia. This blood disorder results from a number of problems that affect your blood's ability to transport oxygen, causing fatigue.
  
  
• Cancer. Although fatigue can be a symptom of cancer, don't be alarmed. See your doctor for a thorough checkup and get regular cancer screenings.
  
  
• Depression. A loss of energy that's accompanied by any number of symptoms - including sadness, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, a lack of interest in pleasurable activities and difficulty concentrating - may be a part of depression.
  
  
• Diabetes. Extreme fatigue can be a warning sign of diabetes. (Other symptoms: excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision and recurring infections.)
  
  
• Restless legs syndrome (RLS). This condition is characterized by an inability to keep your legs still and by tingling or aching sensations in your legs, feet or arms. The symptoms generally occur at night, preventing sound sleep.
  
  
• Sleep apnea. Signs of this disorder include loud snoring, pauses between breaths and awakening frequently while gasping for air. It's a common source of fatigue because it interferes with sound sleep.
  
  
• Thyroid problems. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland fails to make or release enough thyroid hormone. Signs and symptoms include sluggishness, chronically cold hands and feet, constipation, dry skin and a hoarse voice. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid produces excessive amounts of hormone causing fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss, increased heart rate, nervousness and irritability.
  
  
• Chronic fatigue syndrome. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with bed rest and may worsen with physical or mental activity. It affects more than a million Americans, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of all chronic illnesses, CFS is one of the most mysterious (up to 80 percent of people with CFS do not know they have it, says the CDC). Severe and debilitating fatigue, muscle aches and difficulty concentrating are the most common symptoms. In some cases, low-grade fevers and swollen lymph nodes may develop.
  

We all have bouts of decreased stamina and a lack of energy. If a discernible medical ailment is not found, then the cause of fatigue may be due to a combination of factors, including stress, an improper diet or a lack of exercise. Fortunately, God has given us certain natural nutrients that can alleviate tiredness and boost your energy level. You can find these nutrients in my Energy Support formula. Give it a try. You'll be glad you did!

For more information on Dr. Cherry's ministry, visit his Web site: http://www.AbundantNutrition.com