How Private GPs Address General Fatigue and Lethargy?

Often, the terms ‘lethargy’ and ‘fatigue’ are used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. Fatigue is generally indicative of physical exhaustion while lethargy is more related to mental tiredness. Well, the symptoms may sometimes overlap, making it difficult for doctors to determine what the patient is actually suffering from. This blog will walk you through the prime differences between two, highlighting respective symptoms for each. Also, possible treatment options and preventive measures are enlisted at the end for your convenience - read below to learn.  

Fatigue vs. lethargy: Understanding the differences

The former is extreme physical tiredness, without disrupting mental abilities. Generally, this resolves after a good sleep and having a sumptuous meal. However, lethargy is a symptom that causes an abnormal decrease in consciousness, thus affecting your state of mind. It is particularly characterised by trouble in recalling things and poor cognitive abilities. Lethargy is derived from two Greek terms ‘Lethe’ and ‘argos,’ meaning forgetful and idle respectively. As these two words clearly describe, lethargic is meant by someone who moves slowly and cannot think clearly. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the context by obtaining additional diagnostic information and determine if a person is experiencing lethargy or fatigue!

Lethargy: Possible Causes Explained

While there may be a wide range of health conditions behind this, all have one thing in common – disruption of brain function.  Here is a list of some possible reasons for lethargy.

• Intoxication by alcohol or alcohol poisoning
• Abnormal blood sugar concentrations; either too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia)
• Internal brain haemorrhage
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Extreme dehydration
• Conditions in which the liver and kidney get damaged (these can result in excessive toxin build-up in the body, affecting the brain function) 
• Imbalances in electrolyte levels. For example, extreme low sodium (or hyponatremia) or very high calcium (or hypercalcemia)
• Endocrine diseases. For example, hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
• Extreme body temperature fluctuations
• Accidental injuries in the head, sometimes leading to brain trauma.
• Infections to the brain tissue, such as, encephalitis, meningitis, etc.
• Systemic infections like sepsis.
• Too much intracranial pressure (arising from conditions such as hydrocephalus)
• Obstruction in the blood flow to the brain (brain stroke)
• Ischemic attacks
• Mental health aberrations, such as, major depressive disorder.
• Seizures and epileptic shocks
• Blood poisoning due to carbon monoxide and heavy metals.

What if lethargy is left untreated for long?

Untreated cases of lethargy can negatively affect a person’s overall quality of life. This, in turn, can potentially lead to reduced productivity and deterioration of underlying medical conditions. Additionally, it can result in social withdrawal, and the worst of all, death.

How to treat and care for lethargic individuals?

The treatment method for lethargy generally focuses on eliminating the underlying cause.

• For vitamin deficiencies:Medicinal supplements will be needed. For example Vitamin D, B12, etc.
• For hormonal imbalances:Drugs that restore normal hormone levels.
• For depression:Administering psychotherapy or antidepressant medications.
• For Chronic fatigue syndrome:Lifestyle modifications, such as, stress management, dietary changes, etc. are needed. 

Ways to prevent lethargy

Lethargy is itself unpredictable and the conditions that are responsible for it are not preventable. However, doing certain things can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing the disorder. Some of them have been mentioned below:

• Manage chronic conditions: If you suffer from any existing health condition, such as high blood sugar, epilepsy, etc. you must religiously follow your doctor’s guidance. This can prevent lethargy from occurring in the future.
• Keep your head safe: Do wear protective gear if you are associated with any active sport. This practice will prevent accidental head injuries, especially the traumatic ones. Even if you are not into sports, ensure putting helmets, seat belts and similar headwear to reduce risks.
• Have a nutritious and balanced diet: This will prevent electrolyte imbalances and micronutrient deficiencies that can potentially contribute to lethargy. A good, nutritious meal also keeps your cardiovascular system strong, thus minimising stroke-like conditions.
• Maintain an active lifestyle: Obesity is one of the leading causes to degrade health in the long run. Therefore, it is crucial to have a healthy weight. This can potentially prevent conditions that affect your brain and make you lethargic.
• Avoid substance abuse: Misuse of alcohol and similar substances can contribute to lethargy. Hence, it is better to follow a doctor’s prescription and take medications as directed.
• Get proper rest: A sound sleep of at least 7–9 hours every night is essential for maintaining good health. It aids in enhanced brain function and prevents lethargy-like conditions. For this, you need to cut down on screen time, post 8 p.m. The blue light emitted out from digital devices can disrupt your melatonin production, making it difficult to fall asleep.

When to Consider Lethargy as an emergency?  

Fatigue can be difficult to differentiate from sleepiness, even for skilled and seasoned medical professionals. A crucial factor to consider when evaluating whether someone is lethargic is the context.

You must take the following conditions into account:  

• Current happenings or situations: This covers recent injuries, medical treatments, and so on.
• How abruptly they turned sluggish: Suddenly feeling sleepy and struggling to think clearly for no apparent reason is a warning sign.
• Patterns of behaviour: If there's an abrupt shift in activity level, alertness, or behaviour that appears unusual or not typical, it's a good reason to pursue medical help.
• Alterations in the present: If a person appears sluggish but slowly becomes more attentive and aware, it’s probably not lethargy. If they remain sluggish or deteriorate over a few minutes, they require medical assistance.
• If they experience additional symptoms: Certain symptoms, such as those associated with a stroke, indicate that a person requires immediate medical attention. If these signs occur, you must contact 911 or your nearby emergency services number right away, as certain conditions leading to lethargy are time-critical. Each moment matters.

Private GPs in London are committed to providing the best healthcare services. Thus, if you face any symptom of persistent tiredness but cannot determine the cause behind it, do not sit back. Consult with a private GP London and book a diagnostic check before it gets too late!