Feeling tired now and then is normal, but being exhausted day after day is worth taking seriously. There are many always tired causes, and most have simple explanations that can be put right. This guide from Guardian Pharmacy looks at the common reasons for daytime fatigue and when to get checked.
Key takeaways
- Tiredness is often linked to sleep, stress, diet, activity levels or low mood.
- Some health conditions and medicines can also cause fatigue.
- Simple lifestyle changes help many people feel more energised.
- See your GP if tiredness lasts for weeks or comes with other symptoms.
Everyday always tired causes
The most common reasons are often found in daily life. They include:
- Not enough or poor-quality sleep. Irregular hours, a noisy bedroom or late screen use can all leave you unrefreshed.
- Stress and busy lives. Constant worry and a heavy workload are draining.
- Too much caffeine or alcohol. Both can disturb sleep and leave you feeling flat the next day.
- Too little activity. Regular movement often boosts energy, even though it can feel the opposite.
- An unbalanced diet. Skipping meals or eating very little variety can affect energy.
Sleep problems and tiredness
If you are in bed for long enough but still wake unrefreshed, something may be disturbing your sleep. Ongoing difficulty sleeping is covered in our guide to insomnia causes and self-help steps, while our sleep hygiene tips can help you build a better routine.
Loud snoring, pauses in breathing, gasping at night and heavy daytime sleepiness can be signs of a breathing problem during sleep. Read more in our guide to sleep apnoea warning signs.
Health conditions that can cause fatigue
Persistent tiredness can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue. Examples include low iron levels (anaemia), an underactive thyroid, diabetes, infections, and long-term conditions. Depression and anxiety can also leave you feeling worn out.
Some medicines list tiredness or drowsiness as a possible side effect. Never stop a prescribed medicine without advice. Check the leaflet and ask your pharmacist or GP if you are concerned.
It is not possible to tell the cause from tiredness alone. A GP can ask questions and arrange simple tests, such as blood tests, if they are needed.
Simple ways to boost your energy
- Keep regular sleep and wake times.
- Do some physical activity most days, such as a brisk walk.
- Eat regular, balanced meals and drink enough water.
- Cut down on caffeine and alcohol, especially later in the day.
- Make time to relax and talk to someone if you feel overwhelmed.
If you work irregular hours, see our advice on protecting your body clock with shift work. For emotional wellbeing support, visit Mind, and for general health information visit nhs.uk. Ask a pharmacist before taking any supplement or remedy for tiredness.
When to speak to a professional
See your GP if you have felt tired for more than a few weeks without a clear reason, or if tiredness comes with symptoms such as unexplained weight loss, fever, night sweats, persistent low mood or breathlessness. A pharmacist can offer advice on whether to see a doctor. Call NHS 111 if you are unsure what to do. Call 999 for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting or any emergency. If you feel unable to cope, Samaritans are free on 116 123.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to feel tired all the time?
Occasional tiredness is common, but feeling exhausted most days is not something you should simply put up with. It is worth finding the cause.
Can stress make me feel exhausted?
Yes. Ongoing stress and worry use up mental and physical energy and often disturb sleep, which adds to fatigue.
What tests might my GP arrange?
That depends on your symptoms. A GP may ask about sleep, mood and lifestyle, and may suggest blood tests to check for common causes such as anaemia or thyroid problems.
Will a nap help?
A short nap can help some people, but long or late naps may disturb night-time sleep. Keep naps brief and earlier in the day.
Related reading
- Insomnia in the UK: Causes, Self-Help Steps and When to See Your GP
- Sleep Apnoea: Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
- Shift Work and Sleep: How to Protect Your Body Clock
- Browse all our health guides
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. If you are worried about your health, speak to your GP or pharmacist, or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.
Contact Guardian Pharmacy
Address: 448 Kingsland Road, Dalston, London, E8 4AE, United Kingdom
Email: [email protected]
Website: guardianpharma.co.uk