Unlocking the Many Causes and Effects of Fatigue
White Paper: The Definition of Human Fatigue
Fatigue is a complex condition impacting both mental and physical health, manifesting as excessive sleepiness, reduced performance, and loss of motivation. But what are fatigue causes?
Its causes are diverse: sleep deprivation—whether acute, partial, or chronic—affects those with extended work hours or night shifts. Sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome contribute significantly, as do various illnesses and diseases, from the flu to chronic fatigue syndrome. Additionally, therapeutic side effects, stressful physical or mental exertion, and rebound fatigue from stimulant use also play roles.
Unlike engineering fatigue, which denotes irreversible material failure, medical fatigue often can be managed or reversed with rest, treatment, or recovery from the underlying cause. Understanding these factors is crucial for effectively addressing and managing fatigue.
