Other Medical Causes of Fatigue
A diabetic patient may have fatigue as a result of factors unrelated to diabetes. Some of these factors include;
Anemia
Anemia basically means low red blood cell count. Anemia causes a reduced amount of red blood cells available to carry oxygen in the body. Anemia can be caused by a deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid.
Arthritis
This is a condition in which one or more joints in the body are inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. It is mostly common in old people.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing ceases and continues repeatedly while sleeping. It is mainly common in men. Obesity and age are risk factors.
Hormonal Imbalance
According to research, men living with diabetes are at higher risks of having low testosterone levels. Low testosterone can lead to fatigue.
Hypothyroidism (Low Thyroid Level)
A reduced or very low thyroid level can cause severe tiredness, sleepiness or even depression.
Side Effects of Medications
Fatigue can be caused by the side effects of certain drugs used to treat depression, diabetes and even pain.
Other Conditions
- Depression
- Severe illness
- Stress
- Severe inflammation
- Heart conditions
- Unhealthy diet
- Aging [6]