Can't wake up feeling drowsy and lethargic
Feb 20, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Ping
Introduction
Feeling drowsy and lacking energy may be caused by poor lifestyle habits, or could result from factors such as medication side effects or hypothyroidism. If the cause is non-pathological, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is sufficient. However, if it's due to pathological reasons, patients need appropriate medication for treatment. Patients should pay attention to a healthy diet, and consume nutritious, easily digestible foods in moderation, such as pumpkin and Chinese yam.
Feeling constantly drowsy and lacking energy may be caused by poor lifestyle habits, or could result from factors such as medication side effects or hypothyroidism. If the cause is non-pathological, adopting healthy daily routines is usually sufficient. However, if it's due to an underlying medical condition, patients may require specific medications for treatment.
I. Non-Pathological Factors:
If someone has recently been staying up late frequently, consuming large amounts of stimulants like coffee or tea, or over-exercising, they may experience physical fatigue and insufficient sleep, leading to persistent drowsiness and low energy. This condition is generally mild and can be improved by eating a light diet, maintaining regular sleep schedules (going to bed early and waking up early), and managing exercise intensity appropriately.
II. Pathological Factors:
1. Medication Side Effects
Long-term use of certain medications, or failure to follow medical instructions when taking drugs such as loratadine tablets, sertraline hydrochloride tablets, dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablets, or compound methoxyphenamine capsules, may lead to side effects that cause excessive sleepiness and fatigue. Patients should promptly visit a hospital to consult their doctor about reducing the dosage or switching to alternative medications under medical supervision.
2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition caused by reduced production and secretion of thyroid hormones. It can affect the central nervous system, manifesting as symptoms including excessive sleepiness, slowed reflexes, memory decline, and persistent lack of energy. Patients are advised to take thyroid hormone replacement medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets or thyroid tablets as prescribed by a physician to treat the condition.
Patients should maintain a healthy diet, consuming nutritious and easily digestible foods in moderation—such as pumpkin, Chinese yam, carrots, and milk—and avoid binge eating. Engaging in moderate physical exercise is beneficial, although strenuous activities should be avoided.
