What You Need to Know About Spring Fatigue

What You Should Know About Spring Fatigue As winter gives way to spring, if you are feeling tired and weak despite nature's renewal, and are having trouble concentrating, you may be experiencing spring fatigue. Dr. Meltem Batmacı, Internal Medicine Specialist at Acibadem Kozyatağı Hospital notes that with the changing weather, there has been an increase in patients coming to clinics with complaints of fatigue and weakness, stating "Approximately one-third of primary healthcare visits are due to weakness. This condition, which the public refers to as 'spring fatigue,' can be temporary, but serious underlying causes may also be present. For this reason, early diagnosis and treatment are of great importance." Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Meltem Batmacı explained diseases that can be confused with spring fatigue and provided important warnings and recommendations. As the cold and exhausting winter days pass and spring arrives, the change in temperature and humidity levels can cause 'spring fatigue' in many people—manifested as weakness, fatigue, depressive mood, constant desire to sleep, and inability to concentrate. Dr. Meltem Batmacı, Internal Medicine Specialist at Acibadem Kozyatağı Hospital notes that spring fatigue is short-lived, while fatigue lasting longer than a few weeks may have other underlying causes, stating "The duration of fatigue matters. Short-term fatigue is generally more benign. It arises from acute medical condition changes, new stress factors, excessive entertainment the previous evening, dehydration, the beginning of a cold, vitamin and mineral deficiency, hunger and similar temporary factors. Sometimes the cause of fatigue is simply overwork. This type of acute fatigue can occur in anyone. However, if fatigue lasts longer than one month, it goes beyond normal and requires investigation of underlying causes." From Sleep Apnea to Cancer Emphasizing the importance of the patient consulting a physician to provide a detailed medical history, undergo thorough physical examination, and appropriate tests to determine whether a serious illness underlies fatigue lasting longer than one month, Dr. Meltem Batmacı states: "Blood tests, imaging, or certain other specialized testing methods may be necessary. For example; if the patient has sleep problems, daytime sleepiness, and snoring, this may suggest sleep apnea syndrome; inability to enjoy life may suggest depression; fever may suggest infectious disease; weight loss may suggest an overactive thyroid gland, depression, or cancer. For this reason, those whose fatigue lasts longer than one month must consult a physician." Noting that the treatment of the condition identified by the physician varies depending on the patient and any accompanying conditions, Dr. Meltem Batmacı states "There are numerous treatment methods specific to each person and cause, including medication, surgery, radiotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, supportive relationships, exercise, and work engagement." These diseases can be mistaken for 'spring fatigue'!

• Anemia,
• Thyroid disease,
• Fibromyalgia,
• Liver and kidney disease,
• Lung and heart disease,
• Cancer,
• Blood disorders,
• Depression and anxiety disorders,
• Psychological disorders affecting work, family and social life,
• Chronic burnout syndrome.