Understanding Fatigue: Why You’re Always Tired and What To Do About It

Constantly feeling drained? You’re not alone.

Fatigue, a deep, ongoing sense of tiredness is one of the most common health complaints today. It affects how we think, feel, and function. While lifestyle plays a major role, other factors such as medication, nutritional imbalances, and untreated health issues often go unnoticed¹.

Fatigue can be your body’s way of alerting you to an underlying imbalance, whether physical, emotional, or even via causes that relate to medication or supplements.

What Is Fatigue?

Fatigue goes beyond just feeling exhausted. It can appear as:

Physical fatigue: A heavy, lethargic  feeling in the body.

Mental fatigue: Poor concentration, irritability, or lack of motivation¹.

Triggers range from poor sleep and stress to anemia, thyroid problems, or poorly managed chronic diseases.

Medication and Supplement-Related Causes

Certain medications may cause fatigue as a side effect, including:

• Antihistamines
• Blood pressure medications
• Sedatives or some antidepressants
• Medications that disrupt sleep patterns¹

A lack of key nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and magnesium can also lead to tiredness. This is where pharmacists can play a vital role.

How Your Pharmacist Can Help

Pharmacists are trained to identify and manage medication-related fatigue. Here’s how they can support you:

• Medication review: Checking if your prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs are contributing to low energy².
• Nutritional support: Recommending supplements like iron, B-complex, or vitamin D especially if you’re at risk for deficiencies.
• Sleep and stress advice: Offering guidance on sleep aids, herbal products, or non drug alternatives like magnesium.
• Referral to care: If symptoms persist, your pharmacist can refer you to a doctor for further testing.

Some pharmacies even run “fatigue clinics” providing blood pressure checks, iron level screening, and personalized wellness plans.

How to Fight Fatigue: Daily Tips That Work

Lifestyle changes still make a big difference. Try these:

• Get better sleep
  Stick to a routine, limit caffeine, and avoid screen time before bed.
• Stay hydrated
  Even mild dehydration can reduce energy levels².
• Eat smart and nutritional foods
  Choose iron-rich foods (like leafy greens and red meat) and whole grains.
• Move your body
  Gentle activity boosts circulation and alertness.
• Limit alcohol and sugar intake
  Both can cause energy crashes and poor sleep quality.

Boosting Motivation When You’re Low on Energy

Fatigue can make even basic tasks feel overwhelming. Try:

• Small, realistic goals to build momentum
• Tracking energy levels to notice patterns
• Connecting with others for support and encouragement2
• Using reminders to stay on routine
• Focusing on your ‘why’ to stay inspired
  
  

Fatigue isn’t just a sign of tiredness, it’s a signal from your body that should not be ignored. Pharmacists are essential partners in managing fatigue, offering advice on medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes. 

However, if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking advice from your doctor is crucial to address potential underlying health issues. You can also approach your nearest CARiNG Pharmacy to seek help to regain your energy, one step at a time.