Causes of Muscle Fatigue

Muscle weakness or fatigue is defined as a condition when muscles become incapable of exerting the required force. It occurs when the performance capacity of the muscle decreases. This condition can arise due to self-induced or genetic reasons. The limit after which a muscle undergoes fatigue differs from one person to the other.

Building up of lactic acid is believed to be one of the prominent causes of muscle weakness or fatigue. However, there are several debates arguing for and against the theory. Apart from it, the following are the other important reasons for the same.

☞Exercise
Improper and over strenuous exercise is one of the major and self-induced muscle fatigue causes. Excess exercise can lead to overexertion and fatigue. Athletes and sportsperson are prone to fatigue, as they overstress themselves with high intensity workouts. On the other hand, it is essential to have adequate and proper rest after a workout, as lack of it can lead to fatigue.

☞Anemia
Anemia develops when there are significantly fewer red blood cells in the body. In case of anemia, adequate amount of oxygen does not reach the blood cells. Lack of oxygen carrying blood cells lead to muscle fatigue.

☞Potassium Overdose
Overdose of potassium, also known as hyperkalemia, in the body leads to several symptoms like muscle weakness, fatigue, muscle spasms, etc. Disorders of the kidney, side effects of certain medication, diabetes, etc. can be the potential reasons for building up of excess potassium in the body.

☞Side Effects of Medication
It is found that muscle weakness is also one of the side effect of certain prescription and even non-prescription medications. However, the use of medications, although a prominent one, is often ignored as a potential cause of fatigue.

☞Abnormal Thyroid Function
Another major cause is abnormal functioning of the thyroid gland. Under activity, i.e., decrease in the production of the hormone thyroxine leads to hypothyroidism. Fatigue, weakness, depression, constipation, etc. are the symptoms of hypothyroidism. On the other hand, increase in the level of thyroxine, i.e., hyperthyroidism also leads to fatigue in muscles.

Apart from those mentioned above, stress, diabetes, heart diseases, etc. are some other prominent reasons for muscle weakness and fatigue. However, this symptom is rarely related to these diseases, and hence, people tend to ignore it. On the contrary, one should remember that if he / she experiences fatigue in muscles frequently, it is better to consult a doctor immediately.

If the condition is induced due to exercise, it is essential to consult the trainer and change the pattern of exercise immediately. People are often advised that exercise should be carried out only under the guidance of a trainer; and it is essential to follow this if one wishes to prevent overexertion and exhaustion. Anemia can be treated with the help of medications and supplements. As there are several types of anemia, it is essential to find out the exact cause before commencing the treatment.

On the other hand, if a person experiences muscle fatigue as a side effect of certain medication, it is essential to bring this to the doctor's notice and discontinue taking the medication. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, both, can be treated with the help of medications and hormone injections. Excess of potassium can be treated with the help of medication and diuretics. It is also essential to follow a proper diet in order to prevent this condition in future.

As it is observed that muscle fatigue can be a symptom of several severe health conditions, it is advisable not to ignore it; but, get it treated as early as possible. Lastly, note that this information is not to be substituted for proper diagnosis and treatment. Take care!