A neurologist and psychotherapist, Olga Golubinskaya, spoke on Radio Sputnik about how fatigue can veil a range of health problems. She explained that ordinary tiredness fades after rest, while true fatigue that persists may signal a medical issue beyond everyday stress. The key distinction is that normal fatigue responds to sleep and relaxation, whereas a pathological state often lingers despite rest.
The expert noted that if someone feels wiped out after a night shift or a tough round of negotiations, that is typical fatigue. Rest leads to renewed energy, improved mood, and restored productivity. When sleep and downtime reliably restore strength, the body is responding to normal stress in a healthy way.
Yet there is a warning. If fatigue becomes a constant companion and does not improve after time off, a visit to a healthcare professional is warranted. Prolonged tiredness can point to conditions that require medical assessment and treatment, not just more rest.
Persistent tiredness can accompany mental health concerns or medical disorders. Signs to watch for include fatigue that lasts despite adequate sleep, changes in appetite, and a diminished interest in daily activities. Such symptoms may reflect mood disorders like depression or anxiety, but they can also be linked to other conditions that need attention.
Endocrine and metabolic factors are relevant as well. Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid, and diabetes are among the possibilities that can produce sustained fatigue. When these issues are present, they often come with other clues such as disrupted sleep patterns, mood changes, and appetite fluctuations.
In many cases, chronic fatigue is a symptom rather than a diagnosis on its own. It can accompany disorders like psychosomatic syndromes or somatoform disorders, where physical symptoms are influenced by psychological factors. It is important to approach fatigue with a broad view, considering emotional well being, sleep quality, and physical health in equal measure.
Overall, a practical approach to persistent fatigue involves a careful self-check and a structured medical evaluation. Keeping track of sleep habits, energy levels, and mood helps clinicians identify patterns. A clinician may propose a plan that includes sleep optimization, lifestyle adjustments, and, if needed, targeted tests for thyroid function, blood sugar, and related metabolic markers.
In many instances, people who experience ongoing tiredness find relief through a combination of consistent sleep schedules, balanced nutrition, regular gentle exercise, and strategies to reduce stress. When fatigue remains despite these efforts, a professional consultation can uncover underlying issues such as endocrine or mental health conditions, guiding appropriate treatment.