The reasons why people experience fatigue is a long list that includes thyroid issues, metabolic disturbances, sugar imbalance, depression, hormonal issues and sleep apnea. The first step toward finding the cause of fatigue is a diagnosis of the specific issues. If someone is experiencing routine fatigue, the place to start is a full physical exam, with blood tests, thyroid function testing, a metabolic panel, blood sugar level and a body mass index workup, which may yield several telling results.

Often, this testing shows a hormone imbalance, not just for menopausal women, but for younger women that suffer from PMS. Using bio-identical hormones that use the same molecule as the body produces will turn on the cell process and return hormone levels to an acceptable range.

Improper diet is another reason for fatigue, because the body will lack the central nutrients it needs for energy functions. A pharmaceutical-grade supplement may make a continued difference in energy levels. Any use of diet pills should be closely monitored by a physician.

Nothing is more important in winning the fatigue battle than getting enough sleep and sleeping deeply. Creating self-relaxing techniques can be aided by massage therapy or the use of an infrared sauna session. While regular saunas heat the body by conduction and convection from heated air and radiation from heated surfaces, infrared radiant heat is absorbed by the surface of the skin and the subsequent deep relaxation will aid the sleep process.

Dr. Svendsen is a board certified family practice physician, a member of the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons and a diplomate of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. The Wellness Center at Navarre is located at 7552 Navarre Pkwy., Ste. 21. For more information, call 850-936-8343 or visit NavarreWellness.com.