Nausea and tired. Early Pregnancy Symptoms: Understanding Fatigue, Nausea, and Other Signs
What are common early pregnancy symptoms. How can you manage fatigue during pregnancy. When should you be concerned about nausea and vomiting. What causes headaches and backaches in early pregnancy. How can you differentiate between normal pregnancy symptoms and potential complications.
Recognizing the First Signs of Pregnancy
The early weeks of pregnancy can bring about a variety of physical and emotional changes. For many women, the first indication that they might be pregnant is a missed period. However, there are several other symptoms that can signal the beginning of this transformative journey.
Missed Period: The Classic Pregnancy Indicator
A missed period is often the most obvious sign of pregnancy, especially for women with regular menstrual cycles. If you’re sexually active and your period is late, it might be time to consider taking a pregnancy test. However, it’s important to note that not all missed periods indicate pregnancy. Stress, significant weight changes, and certain medical conditions can also affect your menstrual cycle.
Light Bleeding or Spotting: Implantation Signs
Some women experience light bleeding or spotting around week 5 of pregnancy. This is often referred to as implantation bleeding and occurs when the fertilized egg attaches itself to the lining of the uterus. While this can be a normal occurrence, any bleeding during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out potential complications.
Navigating Nausea and Fatigue in Early Pregnancy
Two of the most common and challenging symptoms in early pregnancy are nausea and fatigue. These can significantly impact a woman’s daily life and well-being.
Understanding Pregnancy-Related Nausea
Nausea, often accompanied by vomiting, is a hallmark of early pregnancy for many women. Commonly known as “morning sickness,” this symptom can actually occur at any time of day. It typically peaks between 8 and 10 weeks of pregnancy.
What causes pregnancy-related nausea? While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, hormonal changes, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), are believed to play a significant role. Heightened sensitivity to smells and an enhanced gag reflex can also contribute to feelings of nausea.
How can you manage pregnancy nausea?
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day
- Avoid strong odors and foods that trigger nausea
- Try ginger tea or ginger supplements, which may help alleviate nausea
- Stay hydrated by sipping water or other clear fluids throughout the day
- Consider wearing acupressure wristbands designed for motion sickness
In cases of severe nausea and vomiting, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, medical intervention may be necessary. If you’re unable to keep fluids down or are losing weight, consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Coping with Pregnancy Fatigue
Fatigue during early pregnancy can be overwhelming and unlike any tiredness experienced before. This extreme exhaustion is your body’s way of adapting to the increased demands of pregnancy.
What causes pregnancy fatigue? The primary culprits are hormonal changes, particularly the rise in progesterone, which can have a sedative effect. Additionally, your body is working hard to support the developing fetus, which requires extra energy.
How can you manage pregnancy fatigue?
- Prioritize sleep and rest. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night
- Take short naps during the day if possible
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in iron and protein
- Stay hydrated to combat fatigue
- Engage in light exercise, such as walking, which can boost energy levels
- Delegate tasks and accept help from friends and family
Remember, while fatigue is normal, persistent extreme exhaustion should be discussed with your healthcare provider to rule out underlying conditions such as anemia.
Headaches and Backaches: Common Discomforts in Early Pregnancy
As your body adjusts to pregnancy, you may experience various aches and pains, including headaches and backaches. These discomforts, while common, can be distressing for many expectant mothers.
Understanding Pregnancy Headaches
Headaches are a frequent complaint during early pregnancy, often triggered by hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and in some cases, caffeine withdrawal for those who have cut back on their intake.
How can you manage pregnancy headaches?
- Ensure adequate hydration
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or prenatal yoga
- Apply a cold or warm compress to your forehead or neck
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule
- Consider acetaminophen (paracetamol) after consulting with your healthcare provider
When should you be concerned about pregnancy headaches? If you experience severe headaches, especially if accompanied by visual disturbances or swelling, contact your healthcare provider immediately as these could be signs of preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.
Dealing with Pregnancy-Related Backaches
Backaches are another common complaint throughout pregnancy, often starting in the early weeks and potentially increasing in intensity as the pregnancy progresses. These aches are typically caused by hormonal changes that relax ligaments, changes in posture to accommodate the growing uterus, and increased weight.
How can you alleviate pregnancy-related backaches?
- Practice good posture
- Wear supportive, low-heeled shoes
- Use a maternity support belt as your pregnancy progresses
- Engage in prenatal-safe exercises that strengthen core and back muscles
- Apply heat or cold to the affected area
- Consider prenatal massage or chiropractic care (with your doctor’s approval)
When should you seek medical attention for backaches? If you experience severe back pain, especially if accompanied by vaginal bleeding, fever, or burning during urination, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Understanding Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Early Pregnancy
The myriad of symptoms experienced during early pregnancy can largely be attributed to the significant hormonal changes occurring in your body. These hormonal shifts play a crucial role in supporting the developing fetus and preparing your body for the journey ahead.
Key Hormones in Early Pregnancy
Which hormones are primarily responsible for early pregnancy symptoms?
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Often called the “pregnancy hormone,” hCG levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy and are believed to contribute to nausea and vomiting.
- Progesterone: This hormone helps maintain the pregnancy and can cause fatigue, mood swings, and breast tenderness.
- Estrogen: Increasing estrogen levels can lead to nausea, heightened sense of smell, and changes in skin pigmentation.
- Relaxin: This hormone relaxes ligaments and joints, which can contribute to backaches.
How do these hormonal changes affect your body? The effects are wide-ranging and can include:
- Changes in metabolism
- Alterations in blood flow
- Increased blood volume
- Changes in the immune system
- Mood fluctuations
Understanding these hormonal changes can help you better cope with the symptoms they cause. Remember, every woman’s body responds differently to these hormonal shifts, which is why pregnancy experiences can vary widely from person to person.
Emotional Changes and Mood Swings in Early Pregnancy
While physical symptoms often take center stage in discussions about early pregnancy, the emotional changes experienced during this time are equally significant and deserve attention.
Understanding Pregnancy Mood Swings
Mood swings are a common experience in early pregnancy, often catching expectant mothers off guard with their intensity and unpredictability. These emotional fluctuations are primarily caused by hormonal changes, particularly the rapid increase in estrogen and progesterone.
What might you experience emotionally during early pregnancy?
- Heightened emotions or increased sensitivity
- Sudden shifts between joy and anxiety
- Irritability or short temper
- Unexplained crying spells
- Feelings of overwhelm or stress
How can you manage pregnancy-related mood swings?
- Practice self-care and stress-reduction techniques
- Engage in regular, gentle exercise (with your doctor’s approval)
- Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep and rest
- Communicate openly with your partner and loved ones about your feelings
- Consider joining a pregnancy support group
- Speak with a mental health professional if mood changes are severe or persistent
It’s important to note that while mood swings are normal, persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety could be signs of prenatal depression or anxiety disorders. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns about your emotional well-being with your healthcare provider.
Nutrition and Dietary Changes in Early Pregnancy
Proper nutrition is crucial during pregnancy, not only for the health of the developing fetus but also for managing many early pregnancy symptoms. However, nausea and food aversions can make maintaining a balanced diet challenging.
Managing Dietary Challenges in Early Pregnancy
Many women experience changes in their eating habits and food preferences during early pregnancy. These can include:
- Food aversions: Sudden dislike for previously enjoyed foods
- Food cravings: Strong desires for specific foods
- Changes in taste perception
- Increased sensitivity to smells
How can you ensure proper nutrition despite these challenges?
- Eat small, frequent meals to help manage nausea and maintain energy levels
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods when appetite allows
- Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, or clear broths
- Consider prenatal vitamins to fill nutritional gaps (consult your healthcare provider)
- Experiment with different textures and temperatures of food
- Listen to your body, but try to maintain a balanced diet when possible
Which nutrients are particularly important in early pregnancy?
- Folic Acid: Crucial for neural tube development
- Iron: Supports increased blood volume and prevents anemia
- Calcium: Essential for fetal bone development
- Protein: Important for fetal growth and maternal tissue development
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support fetal brain and eye development
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and dietary needs can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your specific nutritional requirements and any concerns you may have about your diet during pregnancy.
When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags in Early Pregnancy
While many early pregnancy symptoms are normal and manageable at home, there are certain signs and symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention. Being aware of these red flags can help ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby.
Recognizing Potential Pregnancy Complications
What symptoms should prompt you to contact your healthcare provider immediately?
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or passing of tissue
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- Persistent, severe vomiting leading to dehydration
- High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Severe headaches, especially if accompanied by vision changes
- Sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet
- Painful urination or difficulty urinating
- Sudden, significant decrease in fetal movement (in later stages of pregnancy)
These symptoms could indicate potential complications such as:
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Miscarriage
- Hyperemesis gravidarum (severe morning sickness)
- Urinary tract infection
- Preeclampsia (in later stages of pregnancy)
How should you prepare for emergency situations during pregnancy?
- Keep your healthcare provider’s contact information readily available
- Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest emergency room
- Discuss an emergency plan with your partner or family members
- Keep a list of your current medications and allergies
- Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you’re unsure about a symptom
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to pregnancy concerns. Your healthcare provider would rather hear from you unnecessarily than miss a potential complication. Trust your instincts and seek medical advice if something doesn’t feel right.
Tired and Nauseous — Is This Normal?
It’s week 6 and you may be feeling tired and nauseous. Here are some common pregnancy symptoms you’re likely to be dealing with
By Dr Tan Shu Qi, Consultant and Associate Professor Tan Thiam Chye, Visiting Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
Missed Period
Missing a period if you’ve always been regular is usually a good indication that you might be pregnant. So if you’re sexually active and have just missed a period, it’s time to buy a pregnancy test!
Related: What Happens In The First Trimester?
Light Bleeding
Some women may experience spotting, or light bleeding, during week 5 when the embryo implants itself into the lining of the womb. Do see your doctor if you’re worried.
Related: When To Sound The Alarm On Your Pregnancy
Nausea
This is probably the most common indication that you’re pregnant, and it usually peaks at 8–10 weeks. It’s not harmful for your developing baby, although you might lose some weight. If you’re dealing with severe symptoms, see a doctor. He may prescribe you with anti-vomiting medications.
Related: A To Z Of Pregnancy Health
Fatigue
Feeling tired is an early symptom of pregnancy as your body is working harder to prepare itself for the next few months. If you’re a first-time mum, this fatigue is totally different from any tiredness you’ve felt before. But don’t worry, it is also a way of adjusting to the emotional and physical demands of pregnancy. The good news is, this will improve as the pregnancy progresses.
Related: Is My Baby Developing Normally?
Headaches and Backaches
It’s common to feel a dull backache throughout your entire pregnancy, which can increase in intensity as your baby grows. You may also get headaches due to the increase in hormone production. It’s OK to take an over-the-counter paracetamol to ease your pain. If it gets severe, bed rest may help. If your backache worsens or you start feeling a shooting pain down the back of your legs, see your doctor.
Related: Pregnancy Complications
Copyright © 2016 HealthHub.sg. All rights reserved.
Visit Parent Hub, for more useful tips and guides for a healthy pregnancy.
Read these next:
- Pregnancy Symptoms
- 5 Common Pregnancy Symptoms and How to Manage Them
- 5 Natural Remedies to Relieve Pregnancy Symptoms
Sources:
The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008, World Scientific
Healthy Start for your Pregnancy 2012, Health Promotion Board Singapore
This article was last reviewed on
Monday, June 21, 2021
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It’s week 6 and you may be feeling tired and nauseous. Here are some common pregnancy symptoms you’re likely to be dealing with
<div><p><em>By Dr Tan Shu Qi, Consultant and Associate Professor Tan Thiam Chye, Visiting Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital</em></p>
<h3>Missed Period
</h3><p>
<img src=”/sites/assets/Assets/Categories/Body%20Care/pregnancy-nausea-missed-period. jpg” alt=”pregnant woman looking at a pregnancy kit and smiling with husband” />
</p><p>Missing a period if you’ve always been regular is usually a good indication that you might be pregnant. So if you’re sexually active and have just missed a period, it’s time to buy a pregnancy test!
</p><p>
<strong>Related: </strong><a href=”http://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/899/pregnancy-what-happens-in-the-first-trimester”><strong>What Happens In The First Trimester?</strong></a>
</p><h3>Light Bleeding
</h3><p>
<img src=”/sites/assets/Assets/Categories/Body%20Care/pregnancy-nausea-light-bleeding.jpg” alt=”pregnant woman experiencing light bleeding” />
</p><p>Some women may experience spotting, or light bleeding, during week 5 when the embryo implants itself into the lining of the womb. Do see your doctor if you’re worried.
</p><p>
<strong>Related: </strong><a href=”http://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/855/when-to-sound-the-alarm-on-your-pregnancy”><strong>When To Sound The Alarm On Your Pregnancy</strong></a>
</p><h3>Nausea
</h3><p>
<img src=”/sites/assets/Assets/Categories/Body%20Care/pregnancy-nausea.jpg” alt=”pregnant woman feeling nauseous” />
</p><p>This is probably the most common indication that you’re pregnant, and it usually peaks at 8–10 weeks. It’s not harmful for your developing baby, although you might lose some weight. If you’re dealing with severe symptoms, see a doctor. He may prescribe you with anti-vomiting medications.
</p><p>
<strong>Related: </strong><a href=”http://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/1082/pregnancy-a-to-z-of-pregnancy-health”><strong>A To Z Of Pregnancy Health</strong></a>
</p><h3>Fatigue
</h3><p>
<img src=”/sites/assets/Assets/Categories/Body%20Care/pregnancy-nausea-fatigue. jpg” alt=”fatigue in pregnant woman” />
</p><p>Feeling tired is an early symptom of pregnancy as your body is working harder to prepare itself for the next few months. If you’re a first-time mum, this fatigue is totally different from any tiredness you’ve felt before. But don’t worry, it is also a way of adjusting to the emotional and physical demands of pregnancy. The good news is, this will improve as the pregnancy progresses.
</p><p>
<strong>Related: </strong><a href=”http://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/941/pregnancy-is-my-baby-developing-normally”><strong>Is My Baby Developing Normally?</strong></a>
</p><h3>Headaches and Backaches
</h3><p>
<img src=”/sites/assets/Assets/Categories/Body%20Care/pregnancy-nausea-headaches-and-backaches.jpg” alt=”headaches and backaches” />
</p><p>It’s common to feel a dull backache throughout your entire pregnancy, which can increase in intensity as your baby grows. You may also get headaches due to the increase in hormone production. It’s OK to take an over-the-counter paracetamol to ease your pain. If it gets severe, bed rest may help. If your backache worsens or you start feeling a shooting pain down the back of your legs, see your doctor.
</p><p>
<strong>Related: </strong><a href=”http://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/989/pregnancy-complications”><strong>Pregnancy Complications</strong></a>
</p><p>Copyright © 2016 HealthHub.sg. All rights reserved.</p><p><a href=”https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/183/parent-hub/pregnancy”>Visit Parent Hub, for more useful tips and guides for a healthy pregnancy.</a></p>
<hr /><p>
<strong>Read these next:</strong></p><ul><li>
<a title=”Pregnancy Symptoms” href=”http://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/986/pregnancy-symptoms”>Pregnancy Symptoms</a></li><li>
<a title=”5 Common Pregnancy Symptoms and How to Manage Them” href=”https://www. healthhub.sg/live-healthy/1557/5-common-pregnancy-symptoms-and-how-to-manage-them”>5 Common Pregnancy Symptoms and How to Manage Them</a></li><li>
<a title=”5 Natural Remedies to Relieve Pregnancy Symptoms” href=”https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/1556/5-natural-remedies-to-relieve-pregnancy-symptoms”>5 Natural Remedies to Relieve Pregnancy Symptoms</a></li></ul>
<p>
<strong>Sources:</strong></p><p>The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008, World Scientific</p><p>Healthy Start for your Pregnancy 2012, Health Promotion Board Singapore</p></div>
Monday, September 18, 2017
Friday, July 27, 2018
No
1555
Monday, June 21, 2021
<div>KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital</div>
/sites/assets/Assets/Logos%20and%20Official/logo-sing-new-kkh. png
KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
http://www.kkh.com.sg/
Tired and Nauseous — Is This Normal?
Articles
Fighting nausea and fatigue with food
Jennifer Heinen, MS, RDN, LDN Founder, Nourish for Life
During your first trimester you may be glowing with happiness! Or, if you are like the 70-80% of all pregnant women who experience some form of morning sickness (or all-day sickness as many would call it) you might feel more like you’re flushed than glowing.
And what about all that fatigue? Feeling tired all of the time may be one of the first signs of pregnancy for many women. Since we can’t swig back shots of espresso all day, finding healthier alternatives to keep our energy up may help.
Here are a few tips to keep you feeling energized and alleviate that nagging nausea:
Eat first thing in the morning
Waking up with an empty stomach can enhance nausea. Try something small and easy to digest, like saltines, oyster crackers, or dry plain cereal. If you have an appetite, enjoy a light and nutritious breakfast, like plain yogurt with fruit, toast and avocado, or an egg and English muffin to give you energy to start your day.
Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day
Larger meals can make you feel tired, as your body is using more energy for digestion. And to prevent nausea it is best to eat a snack or light meal before you start to feel hungry. You’ll be packing snacks for your baby soon, so you may as well start practicing for yourself now!
Skip the fatty foods
These can slow down your digestion and make you feel nauseated longer and drained of energy. Fill your plate with simply prepared foods that are mostly healthy carbs and lean protein to keep energized.
Try foods that fight nausea
Ginger, lemon, and peppermint help soothe an upset stomach. Cool treats carry less smells, can be easier to eat, and also ease your tummy. Stock up on teas, popsicles, sorbet, or sherbet to help you manage nausea.
Choose bland yet nutritious, whole foods
Processed foods that are high in salt, sugar, and refined carbohydrates may make you feel even more fatigued and nauseated than before. Opt for fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, and lean proteins to maximize your nutrition while not making you feel bogged down.
Stay hydrated
If you aren’t already doing so, start carrying a bottle of water with you everywhere. Dehydration can make you feel weak and tired. Begin to transition to non-caffeinated beverages or moderate your caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day (about the same as a 12-ounce dark roast coffee).
Take your vitamins at night
Since vitamins may make some people feel nauseated, you may be able to tolerate them better if they take them before bed.
Consider Vitamin B6
B-vitamins help give you extra energy and some women find it helps reduce nausea. Talk with your OB or midwife about adding Vitamin B6 to your regimen.
Go for a brisk walk or get up and stretch
Getting a little exercise throughout the day can help wake you up and boost your mood. A quick walk in the fresh air can help you feel better, if not all day, then least for a short while. Again, talk with your doctor before initiating any new exercise routine during pregnancy.
About the author:
Jennifer is a dietitian passionate about connecting good nutrition with tasty food. She runs a private practice, Nourish for Life, where she works with new moms and parents of young children to help them eat well and have a healthy relationship with food. She is a mom of one tiny human and two fur-babies, and loves creating yummy new recipes in her free time.
Sources
- “Morning Sickness: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy. ” ACOG. FAQ126The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dec 2015. www.acog.org/-/media/For-Patients/faq126.pdf.
- Noel M Lee and Sumona Saha. “Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy.” Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 40(2): 309–vii. Web. Jun 2011.
90,000 main causes, signs of serious diseases Yamal. Current news Yamal
- News Yamal
- News. Yamal
- Fatigue and weakness: main causes, signs of serious diseases
If fatigue persists after rest, find out why
Fatigue, feeling of exhaustion, lack of strength and energy? This is a normal reaction of the body. If the fatigue subsides after a rest, there is no reason to worry, but if it persists, you need to find out why. This may indicate various abnormalities in the body.
Diseases that cause weakness
There are many diseases in which weakness is one of the symptoms. But you should not make a diagnosis yourself, especially since without an examination, tests, a specialist will not be able to cope with this task.
Read also: 6 tips on how to easily return to work after the New Year holidays
First you need to contact a therapist, and if necessary, he will refer you to the right doctor.
Weakness may appear in the presence of the following diseases:
- Allergy. During an allergic reaction, a large amount of histamine and other substances that affect the walls of blood vessels are released, which leads to a drop in blood pressure and weakness. In addition to this symptom, the patient may be disturbed by a runny nose, lacrimation.
- Diseases of the heart. When this organ is out of order, blood flow decreases, many organs suffer from a lack of oxygen. Weakness appears, which increases with physical exertion. If you are worried about shortness of breath, compressive pain in the heart, you need to go to the doctor.
- Endocrine diseases. This may be hypothyroidism, due to which a person suffers from drowsiness, weakness, hypotension. Patients complain of chilliness, reduced attention and memory, increased weight. After treatment, all these unpleasant symptoms disappear. Weakness also appears with hypoglycemia, which may occur due to improper treatment of diabetes.
- Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. When the intestinal microflora is disturbed, a huge amount of harmful substances can accumulate in the body, which causes intoxication. In addition to weakness, heaviness worries, it is difficult for the patient to do his job. Headaches or dizziness, nausea, often a person refuses to eat may appear.
- Diseases of the liver. Any hepatic pathology is accompanied by weakness. At first, a person is very tired at the end of the working day, it is difficult for him to concentrate on something. Then the weakness becomes permanent, patients begin to avoid any physical activity, because. even with minor loads, dizziness, shortness of breath appears.
- VSD. Most often found in young people, weakness and fatigue are aggravated by severe stress, overwork, and malnutrition. In addition to fatigue, dizziness, severe sweating, and pre-fainting are disturbing.
- Depression . It’s not just a bad mood. Due to depression, a person can sleep up to 14-16 hours, most of the time lies in bed, complains of weakness and fatigue. Feeling worse after stress or conflict.
- Tumor. The decay products of cancer cells cause severe intoxication, due to which patients suffer from fatigue and weakness, which is not associated with physical exertion. Even in the morning they do not have the strength, headaches and weakness can disturb. Often a person has a low temperature, aches appear all over the body, appetite disappears.
There are other diseases accompanied by weakness. The symptoms of some are similar, so only a specialist can prescribe treatment.
Other causes
But if a person suffers from weakness, this does not necessarily indicate the presence of some kind of disease. There are other reasons that cause severe fatigue, for example, working seven days a week for about 10-12 hours a day.
Most often it affects middle-aged or older people who find it difficult to adapt to such overloads. At the end of the working day, drowsiness, weakness are disturbing, and if a person does not get enough sleep, then the malaise does not go away in the morning.
Read also: Intelligence according to the horoscope: astrologers have named the most intelligent sign of the zodiac
Poor sleep is also the cause of weakness, fatigue, weakness. To feel good, a person should sleep at least 7-9 hours a day. It is advisable to go to bed and wake up at the same time.
Weakness can be caused by a lack of vitamins, for example, B12, when a person is not able to work physically, he often feels dizzy, “flies” flash before his eyes, the skin becomes pale, and the nasolabial triangle turns blue.
Often muscle weakness is observed with a lack of vitamin D, especially we feel it in the autumn-winter period, when daylight hours are shortened. To prevent the occurrence of these symptoms, you need to eat right and varied, because. It is from food that we get the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Read also: Scientists: lack of vitamin D increases the risk of stroke
If we are talking about beriberi, you can take special supplements, but only after consulting a doctor. The cause of weakness can also be malnutrition or too low a caloric content of food.
Strict diets are harmful, do not bring results, because the weight may come back later. It is advisable to eat at least 3 times a day, including fruits and vegetables in the diet and reducing the amount of fast food and sweets.
Sometimes weakness is due to medication, for example, drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular pathologies can reduce blood pressure. Some antihistamines, sleeping pills, tranquilizers cause drowsiness. In this case, you need to talk to your doctor, change the dosage, or try other drugs.
Weakness is not a disease, but may be one of the symptoms of a disease. A correct diagnosis and timely treatment can restore a person’s strength. Sometimes it is enough to improve sleep, proper nutrition, give up night shifts, try to minimize the number of stressful and conflict situations.
A good “medicine” is a change of scenery, for example, a trip to a sanatorium or to the sea. In any case, you need to take care of yourself, because if it is a serious illness, the treatment will be effective only if the patient immediately sought help, and did not dismiss the symptoms that appeared, hoping that everything would go away on its own.
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Causes of dizziness and drowsiness in women, prevention.
Causes of dizziness and drowsiness in women, prevention.
Gimranov Rinat Fazylzhanovich
Neurologist, neurophysiologist, experience – 33 years;
Professor of Neurology, MD;
Clinic for Rehabilitation Neurology. About the author
Publication date: October 30, 2021
Updated: December 14, 2022
Weakness, dizziness, drowsiness – a complex of symptoms typical of a tired body. Probably every person periodically experiences this after a busy day at work.
If signs such as frequent dizziness and headache, weakness, drowsiness, nausea and loss of energy in women become regular, the cause that causes them is probably more serious than fatigue.
Article content:
- 1 Causes
- 2 Symptoms
- 3 Diagnosis
- 4 Treatment
- 5 Prevention
- 6 References 9 0004
Causes
Similar symptoms are present in unsatisfactory work and rest. It can also speak of a severe progressive disease [1].
If you experience frequent or severe attacks of drowsiness and dizziness, you should seek medical help and undergo a complete examination. Diagnosis will help to find the cause of the problem, and treatment will help eliminate it and get rid of annoying sensations.
Unpleasant sensations in the form of drowsiness and dizziness in women occur at different times, have different intensities. It depends on the reasons causing the deterioration of well-being.
Among them – the natural influence on the body of the environment or a specific reaction to non-hazardous phenomena. However, such a malaise is a signal of a disease that requires serious treatment. For example, with atherosclerosis or other conditions.
Causes of drowsiness and weakness can be:
- Pregnancy: often, the condition in question is characteristic of the first trimester.
- A sharp drop in blood pressure. At a young age, it is a natural reaction of the body, often occurs against the background of vegetative-vascular dystonia. It can also indicate cardiovascular disease.
- Anemia, anemia. A decrease in the level of iron in the blood leads to a lack of hemoglobin. This is a protein in red blood cells that allows them to supply oxygen to tissues, including the brain.
- Taking medication, even prescribed by a doctor. Side effects of drugs can manifest themselves in this way.
- Drop in blood glucose (hypoglycemia). Often, it is caused by a prolonged break between meals. It also occurs due to the introduction of the wrong dose of insulin or an overdose of hypoglycemic drugs.
- Chronic fatigue. When the body does not have enough time to recover and rest, well-being worsens.
- Traumatic brain injury. Consequences of brain concussions may appear some time after, it seemed, recovery [2].
- Neoplasms in brain structures. The growing knot compresses the surrounding tissues, making you feel worse.
Different causes cause a different set of symptoms, but if you feel dizzy and weak, drowsy, have a headache, then even without a fever, this is a signal of malaise that requires professional help.
Symptoms
Often, when we feel sleepy and dizzy, we have no fears. Such sensations are attributed to fatigue or the temporary influence of external factors.
However, if other symptoms appear along with the symptoms described, you should immediately consult a doctor. Dangerous comorbidities include:
- nausea and vomiting;
- severe, unbearable headache;
- desensitization of limbs;
- speech problems;
- tremor of limbs;
- fever;
- inability to concentrate;
- blurred vision, double vision, its partial loss or the appearance of “flies”, darkening in the eyes.
With such symptoms, every hour of delay can be decisive for maintaining health [3].
Diagnostics
When a doctor is consulted with complaints of headache, weakness, dizziness and constant sleepiness, the doctor searches for the reasons as closely as possible. After all, it depends on his experience and knowledge whether the correct treatment will begin on time.
Diagnosis includes an initial examination in which the patient is asked in detail about the characteristics of an episode of malaise. They clarify the events accompanying it, collect an anamnesis, find out about the presence of certain diseases in relatives.
After a preliminary determination of the cause of poor health, the patient is assigned laboratory and instrumental studies:
- monitor blood pressure;
- MRI reveals tumors, neoplasms and describes the general condition of the cerebral vessels;
- x-ray of the cervical spine for abnormalities of bone structures;
- dopplerography shows the patency of the vessels supplying blood to the brain;
- blood and urine are checked to determine the presence of infection, glucose and hemoglobin levels.
Also, according to the results of the diagnostics, it will become clear how the kidneys work and whether there is enough oxygen in the blood for proper nutrition of the body.
Based on the results of the tests, the doctor will schedule consultations with doctors of the required profile and make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment
After it is found out why a person is constantly dizzy and has a headache, wants to sleep, appears weak and nauseous, the doctor, in accordance with the cause, makes up a course of individual, complex therapy [4].
The treatment strategy combines several methods:
- Medical approach. Prescribed drugs that directly affect the cause of seizures. Medications that eliminate negative symptoms can also be prescribed.
- Physiotherapy includes a set of procedures such as extremely high frequencies, vortex magnetic fields and others. Sessions purposefully influence the affected parts of the brain and generally strengthen the human body.
- Psychotherapy, if dizziness and lethargy is caused by excessive stress, a complex psycho-emotional state.
In some cases, the only way to get rid of the problem is surgery. It is used in cases of serious injuries or in case of neoplasms of the cerebral cortex, subcortical structures.
Prevention
Feeling dizzy, constant weakness and drowsiness in women not during pregnancy may occur not only due to a serious disruption of the basic body systems. In most cases, attacks of poor health can be avoided by following the advice of specialists.
Effective preventive measures are:
- Smoking cessation. Each cigarette smoked provokes vasospasm, which can lead to dizziness. Carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke has a negative effect on well-being, because it replaces the oxygen needed by the brain in red blood cells.
- Ventilate the room you are in regularly. Open the windows in the bedroom before going to bed for 15-20 minutes, even in winter.
- Take outdoor walks. Daily exercise for 30 minutes will not only improve the supply of oxygen to the brain, but also relieve stress accumulated during the day.
- Track your blood pressure. Try to avoid sudden changes in indicators. When jumping, you must immediately take the necessary measures.
- Find out from relatives about the presence of chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, atherosclerosis, diabetes, cases of anemia. Knowing about such a history, in the event of the first symptoms, you can quickly identify the problem and begin treatment.
- Avoid physical and intellectual overwork. Build a schedule for work and rest and strictly adhere to it.
- Arrange an ergonomic workplace for yourself so that hypodynamia and forced body position do not cause discomfort.
Pay special attention to health.
If you follow a healthy lifestyle, but at the same time attacks of weakness and dizziness with drowsiness still happen, you should consult a doctor [5].