Introduction
Fatigue is more than being busy or having a poor night’s sleep: it can be a persistent lack of energy, reduced stamina or needing longer to recover after normal activity. It has many potential causes, including sleep, stress, infection, anaemia, thyroid conditions, medication and heart disease. The aim is to identify the pattern rather than assume a cause.
What we look for
We will ask whether fatigue is new, whether it is linked to breathlessness, palpitations, chest symptoms or ankle swelling, and how it has changed your ability to do everyday things. Your medical history, examination and, where appropriate, an ECG, blood tests or an echocardiogram help determine whether the heart is contributing.
If fatigue is accompanied by progressive breathlessness, fluid retention or a major decline in exercise tolerance, it is important not to delay an assessment.
Our experience
- Fatigue is common and non-specific, but its timing and accompanying symptoms are informative.
- Blood tests can help identify causes such as anaemia, thyroid disease or electrolyte disturbance.
- Heart tests are selected when the history or examination suggests they are likely to provide a useful answer.
Patient note
“Fatigue deserves to be taken seriously, without jumping straight to one explanation. A good assessment looks at the whole picture.”
FAQ
Can an abnormal heart rhythm cause fatigue?
Yes. A fast, slow or irregular rhythm can reduce exercise tolerance or leave people feeling drained. Recording the rhythm while symptoms are present is often the most helpful way to assess this.
Is fatigue a sign of heart failure?
It can be, particularly alongside breathlessness, swelling or reduced exercise tolerance. It is not specific to heart failure, so the cause needs to be assessed rather than assumed.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Bring any previous blood-test results, a current medication list and a short account of how fatigue affects your usual activities and exercise tolerance.
Can a remote consultation be suitable?
It may be suitable for a review of available information, although an examination or tests may still be needed depending on the symptoms.