Asthenia: 8 Common Causes & What to Do

Asthenia is a feeling of overall weakness and lack of energy. It may also come with physical and mental fatigue, slowed movements, tremors, or muscle spasms.

Asthenia can be temporary or chronic and may be caused by various factors, such as the flu, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, or as a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy.

It is important to consult a doctor in cases of asthenia to identify the underlying cause and start the most appropriate treatment.

What causes asthenia?

The most common causes of asthenia are:

1. Flu

The flu is an infection caused by the influenza virus that can lead to asthenia along with other symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, sneezing, and nasal congestion. These symptoms usually last 5 to 7 days.

What to do: Treatment includes rest, hydration, and medications to relieve symptoms, such as pain relievers for fever and body aches, and antihistamines for allergy-like symptoms.

2. Anemia

Anemia is a condition marked by low levels of hemoglobin in the blood, a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. In addition to extreme fatigue, anemia can cause shortness of breath, paleness, and drowsiness.

What to do: Treatment depends on the type of anemia and may involve iron or vitamin B12 supplements, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or, in severe cases, a bone marrow transplant.

3. Thyroid disorders

Thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism, can cause asthenia along with weight gain, headaches, and hair loss, due to reduced thyroid activity.

What to do: Hypothyroidism is treated with hormone replacement therapy using levothyroxine, prescribed by an endocrinologist.

4. Depression

Excessive tiredness is a common symptom of depression. It is often paired with a lack of motivation to perform daily tasks. Depression affects mood and causes deep, ongoing sadness that lasts for more than two weeks and does not have an obvious cause.

Learn more about the symptoms of depression and how they can present. 

What to do: Treatment usually includes antidepressant medications prescribed by a psychiatrist and weekly psychotherapy sessions with a psychologist.

5. Insomnia

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that causes difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, often resulting in daytime fatigue. It tends to happen during periods of stress but may also be linked to conditions like depression or to life stages such as pregnancy or menopause.

What to do: Improving sleep hygiene is essential, which includes avoiding screen time before bed, keeping a consistent sleep schedule, and staying physically active during the day. Natural remedies such as passionflower or chamomile tea may also help. In more serious cases, a doctor may recommend medication.

Check-out natural herbs for insomnia that you can use to prepare soothing and relaxing teas at home.

6. Vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 is essential for the body's proper functioning. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to symptoms such as asthenia, anemia, shortness of breath, memory loss, vision problems, and irritability.

Read about the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency and what can cause it. 

What to do: Treatment involves improving diet by including more foods rich in vitamin B12. In some cases, supplementation may be necessary.

7. Medications

Certain medications, especially anti-anxiety drugs and chemotherapy treatments, can cause asthenia as a side effect.

What to do: In some cases, doctors may adjust the treatment, though this is not always possible. It is important to rest whenever possible.

Other, less common causes of extreme fatigue and weakness may include cancer, stroke, heart conditions, unmanaged diabetes, muscle diseases, or exposure to toxins.

8. Spring asthenia

Some people experience asthenia at the start of spring, especially when warmer days begin suddenly and there are rapid changes in air pressure and humidity.

Spring asthenia tends to affect women between 20 and 50 years of age and may be worsened by stress, anxiety, or work overload. It may also impact the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.

What to do: Treatment focuses on improving quality of life and self-esteem. Helpful habits include getting at least 7 hours of sleep per night, engaging in physical activity outdoors, reducing alcohol and tobacco use, and managing stress.

A balanced diet low in fat and high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables is also recommended. Staying well-hydrated by drinking around 2 liters of water per day is equally important.