Always tired?
Fatigue isn't a diagnosis. It's a symptom.
Persistent fatigue can have many different causes. Sometimes it's related to sleep, stress or lifestyle. Other times it may be linked to iron levels, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid function, hormonal changes or other underlying health conditions.
The challenge is knowing where to start.
Foreshore is being built to help people navigate those questions with clear information, evidence-based guidance and, when appropriate, relevant biomarker testing and clinical support.
Why am I always tired?
Feeling tired occasionally is normal.
But if fatigue persists for weeks, affects your work, exercise or daily life, or doesn't improve with rest, it's worth exploring further.
There is rarely one single explanation. Fatigue often results from a combination of factors rather than one obvious cause.
Sleep
Poor sleep quality, sleep disorders or insufficient restorative sleep can all contribute to ongoing fatigue.
Thyroid
Both an underactive and overactive thyroid can affect energy levels and overall wellbeing.
Iron
Iron deficiency can reduce your body's ability to transport oxygen and may contribute to tiredness, even before anaemia develops.
Hormones
Hormonal changes, including perimenopause and menopause, may contribute to fatigue, sleep disruption and changes in mood.
Vitamin B12
Low vitamin B12 may contribute to fatigue, poor concentration and neurological symptoms.
Lifestyle & stress
Nutrition, exercise, stress, alcohol and mental wellbeing all influence energy levels.
Biomarkers that may help
Depending on your symptoms, your healthcare professional may consider tests such as:
Ferritin
Iron studies
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Vitamin B12
Folate
Vitamin D
Thyroid function (TSH, Free T4)
HbA1c
C-reactive protein (CRP)
Not everyone needs every test. The most appropriate investigations depend on your symptoms, medical history and clinical assessment.
What you can do today
While you're exploring the cause of fatigue, it can help to:
✓ Keep a simple symptom diary.
✓ Aim for consistent sleep and wake times.
✓ Eat a balanced diet with adequate iron and protein.
✓ Stay physically active where possible.
✓ Speak with your healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
When should you seek medical advice?
You should speak with your healthcare professional if fatigue:
Persists for several weeks.
Is becoming progressively worse.
Prevents you carrying out normal daily activities.
Is associated with unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, chest pain, shortness of breath, significant bleeding or other concerning symptoms.
Start with your concern.
Understanding your health shouldn't begin with guessing which blood test to order.
It should begin with understanding your symptoms and what they might be trying to tell you.
We're building Foreshore Health to help people navigate that journey with confidence.
Join the waitlist and help shape a better way to navigate your health.
Evidence
This page is informed by guidance and evidence from organisations including:
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)
Peer-reviewed clinical research
