Burnout and exhaustion

Burnout usually follows sustained demands with too little recovery and may include emotional detachment, reduced motivation, irritability or trouble concentrating. Exhaustion is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Anaemia, dehydration, COVID-19, coeliac disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, alcohol-related problems and other conditions can also cause low energy.

Consider the whole pattern: when the tiredness began, whether rest helps, and whether there are clues such as breathlessness, fever, thirst, weight change, digestive symptoms, pain or a recent infection. These details help a clinician decide what needs checking.

Book a primary-care appointment if exhaustion is persistent, worsening or limiting work, study, movement or self-care. Bring a brief record of sleep, meals, activity, stress, symptoms and medicines. Until assessed, pace demanding tasks, drink regularly, eat at consistent times and protect a stable sleep opportunity. Avoid using alcohol or unprescribed stimulants to force energy.

A clinician may ask about mood, sleep, diet, bleeding, infection, medicines and substance use, then decide whether an examination or tests are appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for exhaustion with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion, weakness on one side, black or bloody stools, inability to keep fluids down or signs of severe dehydration. Arrange prompt care for rapidly worsening symptoms or inability to stay awake safely. Call local emergency services in an immediate emergency.

Ask which causes best fit your symptoms, whether medicines or sleep problems may contribute, what warning signs to watch for, and whether tests are needed. Ask how much activity is appropriate while your energy is reduced.