Most youngsters these days frequently complain of fatigue. Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says: “This happens due to multiple interrelated factors in our modern lifestyle. Irregular sleep patterns, often driven by academic pressure, social media use, and screen time before bed, significantly disrupt their natural circadian rhythm. Poor dietary habits, including excessive consumption of processed foods and irregular meal timing, fail to provide sustained energy throughout the day. Physical inactivity, largely due to sedentary behaviours like prolonged sitting during classes and screen-based entertainment, reduces stamina and energy levels. Additionally, psychological stressors such as academic performance pressure, social expectations, and future career concerns contribute to mental exhaustion, which manifests as physical fatigue. Environmental factors like pollution and indoor lifestyles with limited exposure to natural light and fresh air can also impact energy levels. The combination of these factors, along with potential underlying health issues like vitamin D deficiency, iron deficiency, or hormonal imbalances, creates a perfect storm for chronic fatigue among younger populations.”
How does fatigue manifest itself?
Fatigue manifests through a diverse range of physical, mental, and emotional symptoms that affect daily functioning. Physically, individuals may experience persistent tiredness despite adequate rest, muscle weakness, headaches, and reduced coordination. Cognitive manifestations include difficulty concentrating, reduced mental clarity (often described as brain fog), slower reaction times, and impaired decision-making abilities. Emotionally, fatigue can lead to irritability, mood swings, and decreased motivation to engage in regular activities. People often report feeling overwhelmed by simple tasks that previously seemed manageable. Sleep patterns may be affected, leading to either insomnia or excessive sleepiness throughout the day. Physical performance decreases, with individuals finding it harder to maintain their usual exercise routines or even complete basic daily activities. Other common manifestations include digestive issues, weakened immune system leading to frequent infections, and reduced stress tolerance.
Are foot and sole pain merely indicators of fatigue?
Pain in feet and soles is not exclusively an indicator of fatigue but can be attributed to multiple underlying causes. While fatigue can contribute to foot discomfort, these symptoms often indicate structural issues like flat feet, high arches, or plantar fasciitis. Poor footwear choices, prolonged standing, or excessive walking without proper support can cause mechanical stress on feet. Medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, or circulatory problems may also manifest as foot pain. Obesity puts additional pressure on feet, leading to chronic pain. Occupational factors, including jobs requiring long periods of standing or walking on hard surfaces, contribute significantly to foot discomfort. Sometimes, foot pain can be a sign of systemic conditions like arthritis or gout. Therefore, persistent foot pain should be evaluated professionally to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment approach.
When does fatigue become a cause for concern?
Fatigue becomes a serious concern when it persists despite adequate rest and significantly impacts daily functioning. Warning signs include fatigue lasting more than six months, accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fever, or night sweats. When fatigue interferes with work performance, social relationships, or basic daily activities, it requires medical attention. Other red flags include severe morning fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours, or fatigue accompanied by new or worsening physical symptoms. Psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, or persistent mood changes alongside fatigue should prompt professional evaluation. Additionally, if fatigue is accompanied by chronic pain, cognitive difficulties, or signs of organ dysfunction, immediate medical consultation is necessary. The presence of other health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders makes fatigue monitoring particularly important.