Extreme, chronic fatigue can have a variety of different causes. In individual cases, the causes must be examined in detail, preferably in consultation with the doctor treating you. Causes of constant tiredness can be harmless, but they can also be very serious. Certain possibilities are not always associated with fatigue.

Possible causes of chronic fatigue that are not usually associated with fatigue

Certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies
The most common cause of mineral deficiency is iron. However, vitamin D, which is not normally associated with tiredness, can also lead to downright exhaustion. Vitamin D is necessary for the immune system to function properly. If there is a deficiency, the body's defences no longer function properly, making it more susceptible to infections, especially latent infections, which usually go unnoticed. In the case of such a latent infection, the body works at full speed with its reduced immune system and uses up energy, which is why you can feel tired and worn out.
Large amounts of potassium are lost during heavy sweating. Potassium deficiency leads to tiredness. Drinks containing electrolytes and green vegetables help to counteract this.

Hypothyroidism
To find out whether hypothyroidism may be the cause of fatigue, specific tests must be carried out.

Interactions and side effects of certain medications
To be on the safe side, read the package leaflets of all medications currently being taken carefully and pay attention to any interactions with other medications.

Pregnancy
It is well known that pregnancy can make you tired. However, many women do not even realise that they are pregnant in the early stages of pregnancy. Especially during this time, all the body's energy reserves are focussed on the growth of the embryo, so that the woman can feel exhausted for no apparent reason.

Urinary tract infections
During the onset of a urinary tract infection, fatigue often occurs because the body produces anti-inflammatory cytokines that can lower energy levels.

Food allergy
A food allergy can cause more symptoms than sneezing. If tiredness occurs immediately after eating certain foods, an allergy test should be carried out.

Leaking gas in the house
A very small leak in the gas pipe of the heating system is often not noticed immediately. Breathing in gas causes fatigue because the body does not get enough oxygen.

Parasite infestation
If you have recently travelled to an exotic country with less hygienic facilities, you may have picked up parasites through water or from the soil. Certain parasites can cause severe diarrhoea. Even after the diarrhoea has subsided, the bacteria can still be in the body and cause fatigue. The parasites may also have spread from the stomach and intestines to other organs.

Poor nutrition
Fatty foods cause blood sugar levels to rise. It then drops again rapidly and causes tiredness.

Mould in the home
Constant inhalation of mould bacteria depletes the immune system and leads to drowsiness. The effect of mould on the body should not be taken lightly, because if the problem is not eliminated, even a healthy person can be incapacitated within a few months.

Constipation
Intestinal sluggishness puts a strain on the body and lowers energy levels. Constipation is often caused by frequent use of painkillers.