Chronic fatigue – causes, symptoms and how to restore lost energy

Chronic fatigue is a long-term state of exhaustion that does not go away even after rest, sleep, or reduced activity, and that significantly affects daily life, productivity, and quality of life.

Unlike ordinary fatigue, which is transient and related to physical or mental exertion, chronic fatigue is a constant feeling of exhaustion accompanied by various symptoms.

Chronic fatigue is not an independent disease, but a symptom that indicates deeper health imbalances: hormonal, nutritional, immunological, metabolic, or the consequences of post-viral conditions such as long COVID.

The most common symptoms of chronic fatigue include:

If these symptoms recur for a long time, it is important to stop and find the cause.

1. Hormonal imbalances

Thyroid problems, adrenal problems, insulin resistance, and perimenopause often lead to a lack of energy.

2. Lack of nutrients

Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids significantly affect mitochondrial function and energy production.

3. Chronic stress and inflammation

When the body works in "survival mode" for months, its resources are depleted. This leads to chronic, low-grade inflammation that affects the entire body.

4. Poor sleep quality

Irregular sleep patterns, insomnia, and excessive screen use before bed disrupt the circadian rhythm and body regeneration, which contributes to chronic fatigue.

5. Gut microbiota

Dysbiosis (imbalance of gut flora) can cause chronic low-grade inflammation and further contribute to fatigue. In people with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and long COVID, microbiota disruption further exacerbates fatigue and "brain fog."

6. Presence of heavy metals and parasites

The presence of heavy metals and parasites can be the “hidden cause” of chronic fatigue, especially in people who feel exhausted despite getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and leading an active life.

To identify and eliminate these factors, specific diagnostics, detoxification and antiparasitic therapy, nutritional support, supplements, and regenerative techniques are required.

7. Autoimmune and chronic diseases

Diseases such as Hashimoto's, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes often have fatigue as a dominant symptom.

8. Long COVID – postvirusni sindrom

More and more people are reporting long COVID symptoms after recovering from COVID-19: long-lasting fatigue, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and difficulty concentrating.

This condition can last for months and significantly reduce quality of life. It is important not to ignore it, because timely diagnosis and adequate support enable recovery.

Many people think that it is “normal to be exhausted all the time.” However, ignoring it long-term can lead to:

With long COVID, ignoring symptoms can prolong recovery and increase the risk of chronic complications.

The first step is to accept that chronic fatigue is not a normal condition and to look for the real cause.

We suggest the following steps:

Chronic fatigue is not a weakness, but a warning from the body that it is time to slow down, listen to it and discover the cause.

Timely targeted diagnostics, an integrative approach to health, supportive lifestyle habits, especially in long COVID, can help you regain energy, vitality and quality of life.