Causes of Fatigue

Let’s face it, a mother’s work is never done. Add a sick child to the mix and it gets even worse! For the past week my little one has been sick and waking up in the middle of the night and staying up for hours. This is really starting to wear me down only sleeping a couple hours at a time. So this seemed like a perfect time to write about ways to combat fatigue because I am at my whits end!
Often we are tired due to the simple fact that we aren’t getting enough sleep. You can typically correct that in a week or two by going to bed a bit earlier. Also try to avoid TV, an iPad or cell phones in the bedroom. The reason is that the Ipad has an LED back light which may stimulate your brain to think it is morning and cause you to stay up later.  If the fatigue persist however, consider other causes. If you have any medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, check with your doctor. Perhaps it’s time to have blood work done to see if you are being properly medicated. Even if you have never been diagnosed, have a checkup as you could be suffering from hypothyroidism or other health issues. If you rule that out, consider if you have had any recent changes in your diet. For example if you are cutting back on caffeine it is normal to feel fatigue and even headaches. Are you grabbing sugary or fattening foods on the run and experiencing a sudden high and then drop in blood sugar? Are you skipping meals? Are you drinking enough water? Dehydration can also cause fatigue. As mothers you tend to take care of your family more than yourself, but make the time to feel better. After all, you need all the energy you can get just to keep up with them!