loud snoring, gasps or noisy
breathing. Cutting back on alcohol
and losing weight might help, but
see your GP if you suspect obstructive
sleep apnoea.Or maybe you’re just not getting
enough sleep. Ideally you should get
seven hours. Keep to a sleep routine,
going to bed at the same time every
evening and taking care not to nap
in the day. This can keep you awake
at night.Your meds might be at fault. Some
prescription drugs, including beta
blockers prescribed for heart
problems such as an irregular heart
rhythm or high blood pressure, can
make you feel worn out.Think about whether you’re
drinking enough fluids. Did you
know that dehydration can cause
fatigue? Combat it by drinking plenty
of water and other soft drinks—you
need about eight glasses a day. nYou could be stressed or depressed.
Stress, anxiety, a distressing event or
depression can make you feel
exhausted. See your GP—talking
therapies or medication might help.
Perhaps you’ve got thyroid
problems? There are physical reasons
why you might be feeling weary. If you
have an underactive thyroid—the
gland in your neck that governs
metabolism—then you’re likely to feel
tired, and put on weight. If the
diagnosis is hypothyroidism, you’ll
need daily tablets.
Diabetes is a possibility. Symptoms
of Type 2 diabetes include thirst,
weeing frequently, changes in
weight—and tiredness. It can be
diagnosed with a blood test.
Have you considered sleep apnoea?
With this condition, the walls of the
throat relax and narrow when you’re
asleep, momentarily interrupting
breathing. Often you’re not aware of it
but your partner might notice your
Tired All
The Time?
HEALTH
Feeling constantly drained but
not sure why? Here are some
crucial factors to consider...
48 • AUGUST 2019