Men’s Health: 4 Possible Causes of Your Fatigue
Most men will experience days when they have low energy or feel mentally exhausted. However, if you suffer from prolonged physical and mental fatigue each day, it could indicate a medical condition. The good news is most conditions that cause low energy are easy to resolve following a diagnosis and the appropriate treatment. Here are four possible causes of your fatigue.
1. Low Testosterone
Your testosterone levels will decline as you grow older, which can affect your body in various ways. For example, it can lead to a loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, a reduced sex drive, and sleep problems. As a consequence, you might struggle with chronic fatigue. Fortunately, you can boost your energy levels with low testosterone treatment, as it will restore your hormonal health. It could also revive your libido, improve your memory, and eliminate muscle aches.
2. Anemia
There is a misconception that anemia is a female health issue, but many men can suffer from an iron deficiency, too. Men are more likely to suffer from anemia if they have a poor vegetarian diet, donate blood on a regular basis, or have a vitamin deficiency.
In addition to struggling with fatigue, you might experience headaches, dizziness, pale skin, tingling in the feet and hands, and shortness of breath. If you suspect you have an iron deficiency, you should book an appointment with your doctor.
To avoid iron-deficiency anemia, you should incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet, such as:
- Spinach
- Red meat
- Breakfast cereals
- Dark chocolate
- Shellfish
- Pumpkin seeds
- Broccoli
3. Poor Lifestyle Choices
A poor diet and limited exercise could be the cause of your fatigue. The last thing you might want to do is exercise when struggling with low energy, but 20 minutes of physical activity each day could eliminate your physical and mental tiredness. There are various exercises you can add to your routine, such as walking, strength training, or dancing.
Also, you could adopt a healthier diet by:
- Eating portion-controlled meals
- Avoiding junk food
- Adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains onto your plate
- Drinking plenty of water
4. Hypothyroidism
While hypothyroidism is more common in women, men can also suffer from the medical condition. It is caused by low levels of the thyroid hormone in the body, which can lead to the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
- Muscle aches
- Dry skin
- Thinning hair
- Depression
- A sensitivity to cold
It is essential to receive a diagnosis and treatment for hypothyroidism as soon as possible, which can prevent the symptoms from spiralling and leading to more serious problems such as heart disease, nerve injuries and even death. Hypothyroidism is easily treated with thyroid tablets and once on the correct does you are likely to experience an increase in your energy levels.
Conclusion
Occasional fatigue and low energy are normal. However, if you wake up every day feeling mentally and physically exhausted, there could be an underlying reason for your tiredness. If your energy levels do not increase after making changes to your lifestyle, you would be wise to consult your doctor for a diagnosis. With the right treatment, you will soon feel like your old self again.