Common Causes of Low Energy in Men

If you feel tired after a long day of work, there’s probably nothing wrong with you. However, persistent drowsiness or low energy may be a symptom of a larger problem. Men experience chronic fatigue for unique reasons, and it is important to understand what your tiredness could mean for your overall health.

Low T

Testosterone, the hormone that is responsible for body hair, muscle growth, and sex drive, decreases as men age. While the gradual decline of testosterone is natural, a sharp drop can have adverse affects like weight gain, insomnia, and reduced motivation. If you are experiencing chronic fatigue, low testosterone levels may be the culprit. Luckily, there is treatment available that will normalize your t-levels and give you back your motivation and energy.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism—low levels of the thyroid hormone—can also be a cause of chronic fatigue. Hypothyroidism is the result of an autoimmune disease in which your thyroid is attacked by your immune system. Low levels of thyroid hormone can often result in low levels of testosterone, so treating hypothyroidism may also result in raised t-levels.

Poor Sleep

Low energy can also be the result of low quality sleep. Working odd hours, skipping sleep, or not falling asleep at a consistent time each night can reduce the quality of your sleep. Sleep disorders, like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome, also negatively affect your sleep. It’s important to consult your doctor to understand what may be the root cause of poor quality sleep and what treatment options or behavioral modifications are available.

Depression

Each year, six million men suffer from depression. Depression presents a wide range of mental and physical symptoms, some of which include sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, decreased appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

The good news is that depression is treatable through an array of medication and counseling options. If you think you are depressed, seek help immediately; untreated depression can lead to self-harm or suicide.

Iron Deficiency

Though more common in women than men, low iron levels are one of the main causes of fatigue. Especially for men who are vegetarians, iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, or headaches. You doctor will order a blood test to determine if you are iron deficient, and then recommend treatment options.

Diet and Exercise

A poor diet coupled with a lack of exercise can cause fatigue. Even though you feel tired, try exercising for just 30 minutes a day; you’ll probably feel a difference in your mood and energy levels. When it comes to your diet, be sure to eat a healthy mix of whole foods, such as nuts, vegetable, whole grains, and unprocessed, lean protein. Avoid junk food, fried food, sugary drinks, and candy. Eating too much sugar will spike your blood sugar levels and ultimately drain your energy levels.

Other Causes

Chronic low energy may also be the result of:
• Liver failure
• Heart disease
• Cancer
• COPD
• Emphysema
• Chronic fatigue syndrome.

Certain medications such as blood thinners or antidepressants may also cause drowsiness.

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