Why does my body feel tired?

Fatigue can affect energy, concentration, motivation and stamina. It may follow infection, emotional strain or inadequate rest. Ongoing tiredness can also present with anaemia, coeliac disease, chronic kidney disease, alcohol use disorder, burnout, chronic fatigue syndrome or COVID-19. Tiredness alone cannot identify the cause.

Record sleep, meals, activity, mood, medicines and when tiredness is strongest. Keep a regular sleep routine, drink fluids, eat balanced meals and build activity gradually if it does not worsen symptoms. Arrange a GP consultation if fatigue persists, returns or limits daily life.

Seek urgent help for tiredness with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion, one-sided weakness, heavy bleeding or thoughts of self-harm. Arrange prompt review for persistent fever, marked thirst, much less urine or unexplained weight change.

Ask which causes fit your pattern, whether medicines or sleep contribute, and whether checks for anaemia or kidney problems are appropriate. Share onset, triggers and changes in mood, appetite, bleeding or weight.