Medical Conditions That Cause Fatigue in Women
Several underlying medical conditions may be the cause of intense or unusual fatigue. Here are a few to consider.
Chronic fatigue syndrome
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a serious illness that causes intense fatigue. It makes completing everyday life activities more difficult because of physical exhaustion, extreme lack of energy, and more.
ME/CFS affects an estimated 3.3 million people in the United States. It’s more common in people assigned female at birth but is often underdiagnosed. If you are having intense fatigue, talk to a clinician who can help.
Epstein–Barr Virus
Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) , the virus that causes infectious mononucleosis, can get reactivated and cause intense fatigue. Signs and symptoms also include fever, inflamed throat, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. If you have these symptoms, be sure to get evaluated.
Post-COVID syndrome
Post-COVID syndrome is also commonly called “long COVID.” The syndrome can occur after someone has contracted the COVID-19 virus. Even after recovery from the acute illness, people may experience lingering symptoms, including extreme fatigue. If you’ve recently had COVID or are unsure and are experiencing fatigue or other lasting symptoms, talk to your doctor.
Heart disease
Extreme fatigue can be an early symptom of heart disease , especially for people assigned female at birth. Sudden onset of extreme fatigue may signal an impending heart attack . If you are experiencing new or persistent fatigue, don’t ignore the symptoms.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Several micronutrient deficiencies can present as fatigue. Your clinician can check your levels, help determine whether you have a nutrient absorption issue and more.
Jennifer Chesak is an award-winning author, freelance science and medical journalist, editor, and fact-checker. Her work has appeared in several national publications, including the Washington Post, BBC, Healthline, Verywell Health, and more. As someone who has faced major health adversity in her life, Chesak now focuses her work on evidence-based, root-cause, and preventive medicine. She contracts with brands, such as Levels Health, Hone Health, and more, that aim to change the current medical model’s bandage approach to treating diseases to a model that empowers people with the tools to prevent, manage, and even reverse some conditions. Chesak recently authored an award-winning book on the potential for plant medicine to help elevate women’s health. She earned her master of science in journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill. She now teaches in the journalism and publishing programs at Belmont University.
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