• Finding the cause of fatigue can improve your energy levels.dj wave 211 image by Nathalie P from Fotolia.com
  
  Feeling tired or dealing with a bout of low energy is common. When fatigue becomes a daily occurrence and interferes with your routine, however, perhaps it's time to uncover the underlying cause. There are several causes of major fatigue, and pinpointing the exact cause may require the help of a medical professional.
  
  

Depression

• Depression is a major mental health disorder characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness that can last for several weeks or months. There are different degrees of depression. But oftentimes, feeling depressed can zap your energy and cause ongoing fatigue. Improving your mental health with medication and lifestyle changes that include regular exercise and stress management can help resolve fatigue.
  
  

Sleep Condition

• Not receiving an adequate amount of sleep, which is about eight hours a night for most people, can also trigger major fatigue that disrupts life. Different factors can affect the quality of sleep such as battling conditions like chronic insomnia and sleep apnea. Conditions that cause ongoing pain such as arthritis may hinder quality sleep, as does certain habits such as watching stimulating programming or playing computer games before bedtime. Exercising before bed or drinking caffeine can also result in over-stimulation and interrupt your sleep patterns.
  
  

Medical Diseases

• Certain chronic conditions such as lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia can cause major bouts of fatigue. Fatigue can become so severe that sufferers are unable to complete everyday tasks such as working or cleaning their home. There is no cure for these conditions, but there are ways to manage fatigue and improve energy levels. Getting plenty of rest, pacing yourself and regular exercise can help increase energy and fight fatigue.
  
  

Other Medical Conditions

• Major fatigue is a symptom of various medical conditions, some serious. If unable to resolve fatigue on your own with lifestyle changes, it's best to seek medical care to diagnose the underlying cause of persistent tiredness. Medical conditions that may contribute to fatigue include cancer, anemia, problems with the thyroid gland, heart disease and kidney problems
  
  

Medications

• Fatigue that begins after starting a new medication may be a side effect of the drug. Some side effects disappear as your body gets used to the medication. But if fatigue continues or worsens due to the medication, talk to your doctor about lowering the dosage or prescribing an alternative drug.