Signs and Symptoms - Fatigue (Weakness)

Physical Fatigue

Physical fatigue or muscle weakness (or "lack of strength") is a direct term for the inability to exert force with ones muscles to the degree that would be expected given the individual's general physical fitness . A test of strength is often used during a diagnosis of a muscular disorder before the etiology can be identified. Such etiology depends on the type of muscle weakness, which can be true or perceived as well as central or peripheral. True weakness is substantial, while perceived rather is a sensation of having to put more effort to do the same task. On the other hand, central muscle weakness is an overall exhaustion of the whole body, while peripheral weakness is an exhaustion of individual muscles.

Mental fatigue

In addition to physical, fatigue also includes mental fatigue, not necessarily including any muscle fatigue. Such a mental fatigue, in turn, can manifest itself both as somnolence (decreased wakefulness ) or just as a general decrease of attention , not necessarily including sleepiness. In any case, this can be dangerous when performing tasks that require constant concentration, such as driving a vehicle . For instance, a person who is sufficiently somnolent may experience microsleeps . However, objective cognitive testing should be done to differentiate the neurocognitive deficits of brain disease from those attributable to tiredness.

Causes

Fatigue is typically the result of working , mental stress , jet lag or active recreation , depression , and also boredom , disease and lack of sleep . Even just waking up too early can cause you to be fatigued. It may also have chemical causes, such as poisoning or mineral or vitamin deficiencies. Massive blood loss, resulting in anemia , frequently results in fatigue.

The sense of fatigue or weakness is believed to originate in the reticular activating system of the lower brain. Musculoskeletal structures may have co-evolved with appropriate brain structures so that the complete unit functions together in a constructive and adaptive fashion. The entire systems of muscles, joints, and proprioceptive and kinesthetic functions plus parts of the brain evolve and function together in a unitary way.