As the winter months draw in, many Brits find themselves battling increased tiredness. However, experts warn that what feels like seasonal lethargy could sometimes signal something more serious requiring medical attention.
When Fatigue Signals Something Serious
Dr Punam Krishan, a television GP working with Stannah, emphasises the importance of recognising when tiredness crosses from normal winter fatigue into potential chronic illness territory. "It's normal to feel a bit more tired in winter," she acknowledges, "but fatigue that lingers for weeks, gets worse, or starts affecting daily life should never be ignored."
Research published in the British Journal of General Practice supports this concern, finding that people reporting ongoing fatigue are significantly more likely to develop serious health conditions than those without fatigue.
Dr Krishan highlights that chronic illnesses like ME (also known as chronic fatigue syndrome), lung disease, or autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can all present first as unexplained tiredness. She advises paying particular attention if everyday activities like climbing stairs or walking between rooms start feeling much harder than usual.
Recognising Chronic Fatigue Symptoms
Long-term or chronic fatigue typically lasts more than a month and doesn't improve with rest. It may be accompanied by other concerning symptoms that distinguish it from ordinary tiredness.
Key symptoms to watch for include muscle aches or joint pain, persistent headaches, and shortness of breath even after mild exertion. Many people also experience problems with memory or concentration, often described as 'brain fog', alongside feeling dizzy or weak when standing up.
Poor sleep quality despite feeling exhausted is another red flag that warrants medical attention rather than dismissal as winter blues.
Practical Management and When to Seek Help
For most people experiencing seasonal fatigue, practical changes can make a significant difference. Dr Krishan recommends several evidence-based approaches to managing winter tiredness.
Listen to your body and rest when needed, but remain alert to fatigue that feels different or impacts your daily activities. Nutrition plays a crucial role - include whole grains, lean protein, oily fish, nuts and iron-rich leafy greens to maintain stable energy levels.
Vitamin deficiencies commonly contribute to winter fatigue. Ask your GP about checking your vitamin D and B12 levels, which often drop during darker months and significantly affect energy.
Creating an optimal sleep environment is essential - ensure your mattress offers good support and keep your bedroom dark, quiet and at a comfortable temperature. Reduce screen time before bed as blue light can disrupt sleep patterns.
Dr Krishan suggests keeping a simple fatigue journal if you suspect your tiredness is worse than normal. Note daily energy patterns and list tasks becoming more difficult, like climbing stairs or household chores.
Building gentle movement breaks into your day and seeking at least 20 minutes of outdoor daylight exposure can help regulate your body clock and improve both mood and energy levels.
"If you've noticed your tiredness lasting more than a few weeks or developed new symptoms like unexplained weight loss, night sweats, pain or severe breathlessness, it's important to speak to your GP," Dr Krishan emphasises. "Early advice can make all the difference in finding the cause and getting the right support."
For those experiencing chronic fatigue, particularly during challenging winter months, she advises being kind to your mental health and avoiding pushing yourself too hard. Balance is crucial to prevent making fatigue worse, and being honest with those around you about your symptoms ensures you receive appropriate support.
