Why am I feeling so tired?

Being well rested is an important part of staying healthy and feeling good. However, often we may find ourselves asking, “Why am I so tired?”

Dr. Muhammad Hamadeh, a pulmonologist at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, Ill., says there are a variety of causes that may explain why you are feeling so sleepy.

The simplest explanation is that you may not be getting an adequate amount of sleep.

“Since we are busy, and the effects of social media are becoming greater, we don’t sleep long enough,” says Dr. Hamadeh. While you may be getting an adequate amount of sleep, it may not be of the best quality. “Possible causes are sleep apnea, restless legs or other movement disorders.”

Pathological sleepiness may be in your way of getting adequate, good-quality sleep. Dr. Hamadeh says that this may be a result of narcolepsy or idiopathic excessive sleepiness. The drugs you are taking may also have an impact on your level of tiredness.

“Drugs that might affect the quality of sleep or cause daytime sleepiness can range from prescribed medications for anxiety or depression to illegal drugs,” he says.

Drowsy symptoms in teenagers may be explained by two different factors.

“Especially in teenagers, a delayed circadian rhythm may play a role,” Dr. Hamadeh says. “Going to sleep late at night and having to wake up early the next morning for school may be a cause, as well.”

To combat your sleepiness, he recommends following these tips:

1. Sleep long enough for your age and needs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 8-10 hours for teenagers, more than 7 hours for adults.
2. Have no disruptions in the bedroom. This includes TV and social media.
3. Apply principles of good sleep hygiene.
4. Seek the help of a professional if you are still sleepy despite applying the tips above.