We all have days when we feel drained. A late night, a stressful week, or a busy schedule can leave anyone low on energy. But if fatigue becomes your constant companion—even after what seems like a full night’s sleep—it may be more than just a hectic lifestyle. Persistent tiredness can be your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention, from sleep habits to underlying health conditions.
Two primary care physicians, Christian Moore, MD, and Anthony Paul Schwab Jr., MD, of The Columbia Medical Group Trenholm Road, explain what causes fatigue, how much sleep adults really need, and when it’s time to talk with your doctor.
How much sleep do adults really need?
Most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night, but quality matters just as much as quantity.
“Total sleep amounts vary by individual, but on average an adult will likely need about eight hours,” says Dr. Moore. “Adults should leave enough time for their body to reach deeper levels of sleep, including REM sleep. Constant interruptions can prevent that restorative process.”
Getting less than six hours is not enough for most people and emphasizes consistency. Regular, uninterrupted sleep helps your brain and body repair, regulate hormones, and restore energy.
Common reasons you may not be sleeping well
Many everyday habits—and some medical conditions—can interfere with sleep.
Dr. Moore says he frequently sees fatigue tied to lifestyle factors. “I am seeing a lot of individuals struggle with work-life balance, poor sleep hygiene, lack of exercise, and underlying medical conditions that worsen their sleep,” he explains. Conditions such as sleep apnea, chronic pain, or an overactive bladder can wake people repeatedly during the night.
Mental health and daily habits also play a major role. Mental health disorders, substance use, restless leg syndrome, and inactivity can all disrupt rest. Screen time before bed, late meals, and caffeine or alcohol in the evening can make it harder to fall and stay asleep. Increasing physical activity during the day often improves sleep quality.
Why you might still feel tired—even after enough sleep
If you’re sleeping enough but still exhausted, an underlying medical condition may be contributing.
Underlying physical conditions that can lower a person’s energy levels. Dr. Schwab notes “There are literally hundreds of things that can cause fatigue besides not getting enough sleep, including anemia, depression, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, chronic kidney disease, and medication side effects,” he says.
Because fatigue can stem from many sources, identifying the cause often requires a closer look at your overall health.
When should you see a doctor?
Occasional tiredness is normal. Persistent fatigue that interferes with daily life is not.
Dr. Schwab recommends evaluation when fatigue doesn’t improve or when there’s no obvious explanation. Treating an underlying condition—such as sleep apnea or a hormone imbalance—can often resolve the problem. He adds that it’s time to seek care “when fatigue is starting to affect your daily life despite eating healthily, sleeping well, and exercising regularly.”
How doctors find the cause of fatigue
Diagnosing fatigue is often like solving a puzzle. Your doctor may recommend:Blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, or blood sugar issues
- A sleep study to evaluate for sleep apnea or other sleep disorders
- Screening for depression or anxiety
- Heart or other specialized testing, depending on symptoms
- physical exam and review of medications and lifestyle factors
d2730367b7296e538033ff0000e6f23e.jpg?sfvrsn=9a5a6d0a_0 "Moore_Christian (2)")
Leave a comment