Mailbag! Feeling Exhausted? This May Be Why.
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted April 19, 2022
I’m worried about my husband’s lack of energy. Do you have any tips?
–Georgia from Long Island, NY
Georgia,
Everyone feels run down and tired every now and then. But when you’re constantly exhausted, it’s time to look at why it could be happening.
The list of things that may result in fatigue and energy loss may seem long, but that’s because MANY things can be the root cause.
This list is meant to give you some ideas of what to look for… as well as when to be concerned enough to visit your doctor.
- Medications. Antidepressants, antihistamines, certain heart medications, and medicines for nausea and pain are particularly a common source of fatigue, but almost any drug (especially a new drug) can be a source of fatigue.
- Caffeine and alcohol. Overuse of both caffeine and alcohol can lead to feeling listless and tired.
- Medical treatments. Certain procedures and therapies can cause fatigue, like chemotherapy and radiation, and for some folks, surgery can also trigger low energy long after the recovery time.
- Infections. Sometimes fatigue is the first sign you’re sick, but if it’s just a stomach bug or cold, most people recover their energy fairly quickly. A few infections like shingles and COVID-19, however, can leave people tired and dragging for months.
- Chronic disease. Any long-term condition with pain will make someone feel tired. Conditions like heart, kidney, liver, and thyroid disease, as well as arthritis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can also cause severe fatigue.
- Sleep apnea. This breathing disorder causes folks to snore a lot and wake up gasping for air. Sleep apnea can only be diagnosed with a sleep study usually done at the hospital, but sometimes with special equipment in your own home.
- Mental and emotional Any change in life, including loss of friend or family member, financial or personal problems, and even retirement can all leave people feeling depressed and tired. Check in with your husband to see if he’s has a lot of worries on his mind lately.
Like I said, the list is long, and it can be hard to narrow down what’s going on (even for a doctor).
It might be time to have a heart-to-heart with your husband to see what’s going on. Then him into to see a doctor (even if you have to drag him!).
P.S. Have a health concern that’s worrying you? Click here to submit your questions and get featured in the weekly mailbag!
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The $1000 Weight-Loss Secret Your Body Makes for FREE
Weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have become household names. These injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs have captured widespread attention, with celebrity endorsements and social media success stories highlighting their dramatic results. But here’s what those glossy headlines aren’t telling you… GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone released by your gut. It acts as...
Brain Fog? Your Thermostat Could Be the SURPRISING Culprit
Cranking up the heat in winter or blasting the AC in summer can send your utility bills soaring. So, it’s no surprise that many of us choose to grit our teeth and endure it. But that could be a huge mistake. New research reveals that extreme indoor temperatures don’t just make you uncomfortable—they could be...
Nature's Powerful COVID-19 Defense REVEALED
While Big Pharma scrambles to cash in on new COVID-19 treatments, Mother Nature already has powerful allies waiting in the wings. A groundbreaking review in the journal Nutrients revealed a secret that Big Pharma won’t advertise—common herbs and supplements could ease mild COVID-19 symptoms. And the best part? You won’t need a prescription or to...
Women, Don’t Ignore These 5 Signs!
I’ve spent decades in medicine, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that women are tough as nails. They’re pros at pushing through discomfort and brushing off warning signs. But that strength can also be their biggest health risk. Feeling tired? Well, of course—after all, you’re juggling a million things! Short of breath? It...
5 Warning Signs Men Should NEVER Ignore!
Men—listen up. I know you pride yourself on being tough. You insist on pushing through and refuse to make a fuss about “every little ache and pain.” But here’s the cold, hard truth… That tough guy act? It could KILL you. As a doctor I get an unwanted first-row seat to some hard-learned lessons. Hardly...
Mailbag: Is Your Gut Secretly Attacking Your Joints?
“Can a leaky gut cause sudden onset arthritis? My wife has developed arthritis over a 2-month period that is almost debilitating at this point, and she has constant diarrhea. Are these symptoms connected in some way?” -Leaky and Lost Hi Lost, When my patients ask me about leaky gut, my answer is always the same: “It’s...
“Brain Brew” SLASHES Dementia Risk
If you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you know I’m a coffee fan. There are plenty of good reasons to stay that way. In fact, I shared a reason just last week. But I’ve also made room in my life for another hot beverage—and that’s green tea. Now, new research suggests it was a...
Nature's New Mood Booster? (It's Already in Your Kitchen!)
Scientists uncovered something surprising hiding in plain sight in our kitchens. And it might turn out to be nature’s answer to fighting depression. The best part? You’re probably already eating it… Let’s find out. An exciting new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reveals that naturally occurring spermidine could help keep the blues...
Coffee Mug Hack Could Head Off Cancer
If you’re a coffee lover, it doesn’t get much better than that first cup of morning coffee. But before you reach for your favorite mug, I have some news that might make that java taste EVEN better. A new study finds your coffee habit could protect you from one of the world’s most common cancers…...
WALK Away from Cancer? Study Says “Yes!”
When you’re battling cancer, the LAST thing you need is more questionable advice. Yet a parade of well-meaning folks will insist you must do everything from running marathons to moving to a Greek island in order to outsmart the disease. But what if something as simple as a daily walk could give you the extra...