Why do I always feel sleepy and lack energy?
Constantly feeling sleepy and lacking energy usually refers to hypersomnia, which may be caused by poor lifestyle habits, seasonal changes, iron-deficiency anemia, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, or other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Poor Lifestyle Habits
Irregular sleep schedules and excessive use of electronic devices at night can reduce sleep quality. Prolonged screen exposure suppresses melatonin secretion, disrupts the normal circadian rhythm, leads to disordered sleep cycles and reduced sleep depth. As a result, even with sufficient sleep duration, the body cannot fully restore physical and mental energy, causing hypersomnia. Generally, no specific treatment is required. Adjusting lifestyle habits—such as ensuring adequate sleep, avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, and engaging in regular physical exercise—can help.
2. Seasonal Changes
In spring, rising temperatures cause pores, sweat glands, and blood vessels to dilate, increasing skin blood circulation. This may relatively reduce oxygen and blood supply to the brain, leading to drowsiness. Usually, no special treatment is needed. Increasing outdoor activities, maximizing exposure to natural light, and using light therapy lamps to simulate sunlight can help regulate the circadian rhythm and improve mood.
3. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia may result from malnutrition, genetic factors, or others. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body; when red blood cells or hemoglobin levels are insufficient, body tissues—especially the brain and muscles—do not receive enough oxygen, resulting in fatigue and hypersomnia. Other symptoms may include pallor, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Treatment may include medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, polysaccharide-iron complex capsules, or ferrous fumarate tablets, taken as directed by a physician.
4. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome may be triggered by neurological, immune system, or other factors. Patients often experience persistent fatigue, which can lead to hypersomnia. Medications such as ibuprofen tablets, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, or fluoxetine hydrochloride capsules may be used under medical supervision.
5. Depression
Depression may arise from genetic, psychosocial, or other factors. In individuals with depression, imbalances in brain neurotransmitters—particularly reduced levels of serotonin and dopamine—lead to decreased mood and energy levels, causing fatigue and hypersomnia. Additional symptoms may include sleep disturbances, appetite changes, and reduced self-worth. Treatment may involve medications such as venlafaxine hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, sertraline hydrochloride tablets, or amitriptyline hydrochloride tablets, prescribed by a doctor.
Maintain a balanced diet in daily life and avoid excessive intake of stimulants such as caffeine, sugar, and alcohol. Engaging in moderate physical activity each day can also help improve sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness.