Fatigue is not a condition limited only to the young ones as it also affects seniors. In fact, it is very common for seniors to suffer from fatigue, explained and otherwise. A naturally aging body is very prone to weakness and fatigue, a condition that usually explains why seniors easily get tired when doing everyday chores such as gardening, cooking and even walking. At times, it can be frustrating for seniors especially those who enjoy an active lifestyle. If you plan to fight fatigue, you must know what causes it and how to limit, if not prevent, its causes from happening!
· Sleep disorders. The number one cause of fatigue is not sleeping enough. In other words, if you only get, say, 5-6 hours of continued sleep a day and your body is not comfortable with it, you run a high risk of getting yourself fatigued. Ideally, it should be 8 hours of continued sleep in order for the body to fully recharge itself, anything below it is not normal. If you suspect you’re experiencing a sleeping disorder, consult your healthcare provider as he or she would know what to do with your condition.
· Your blood sugar. Maintaining your ideal blood sugar levels is essential in fighting fatigue. It is because changes in your blood sugar automatically make you feel tired and sluggish. Avoid junk foods as well since you’ll never know what it can do to your blood sugar levels.
· Iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is a condition of the body wherein the body has more white blood cells than red ones. Red blood cells transport air all throughout your body. Lack of oxygen will result to your muscles not functioning properly thus causing fatigue. Take iron supplements.
· Depression. You may not be physically tired but suffering from depression can definitely make you feel weak and tired all the time. Seniors are prone to depression and unfortunately, this condition is often misdiagnosed. As the months keep dragging, so does your depression/fatigue. Consult a specialist if you feel you’re suffering from depression.
· Thyroid problems. If you are suffering from thyroid problems particularly hypothyroidism which is basically when your thyroid is not producing enough hormones needed to keep your metabolism up and running then you’ll most certainly feel sluggish. Have your thyroid checked to prevent complications from happening.
· Too much caffeine. Sad to say, caffeine is more like “fake energy”. It only lends you a couple of hours energy spurt then that’s it. The problem with energy spurt is that it doubles the fatigue so that when the source of the energy spurt dies down, the fatigue rises up doubled.