Always Tired? A Mountain View Primary Care Doctor Explains What Might Be Going On

Understanding Fatigue: Insights from Dr. Sapna Rajput, D.O.

By Dr. Sapna Rajput, D.O. – Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician in Mountain View, CA

Are you constantly asking yourself, “Why am I so tired all the time?” You're not alone. At my primary care clinic in Mountain View, I regularly see patients who struggle with ongoing fatigue. Many are surprised to learn that the root cause can often be diagnosed and treated. Fatigue deserves a thoughtful approach—one that includes careful evaluation, appropriate testing, and a care plan tailored to your unique needs. If you're looking for answers and treatment, we're here to help.

What Is Fatigue—and Why Should You Get It Checked?

Fatigue is more than just feeling sleepy. It’s a persistent lack of energy that affects your ability to concentrate, work, and enjoy life. It can come on slowly or feel like it hits all at once. Either way, fatigue is not something you should ignore. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for regaining your energy and improving your quality of life.

The Importance of Addressing Fatigue

Ignoring fatigue can lead to more severe health issues. It can affect your mental health, relationships, and overall well-being. By addressing fatigue early, you can prevent complications and find effective solutions.

6 Common Causes of Fatigue I See in My Clinic

1. Poor Sleep or Sleep Disorders

Are you getting 7–9 hours of sleep but still waking up exhausted? You might be dealing with an underlying sleep disorder. Conditions like sleep apnea—which causes brief pauses in breathing during sleep—can leave you feeling unrested even after a full night in bed. Insomnia and restless leg syndrome are also common causes. Fortunately, these can be easily diagnosed and treated. Sleep-related issues are one of the leading causes of daytime fatigue, especially for adults juggling high-stress jobs, irregular schedules, or caregiving responsibilities.

2. Nutrient Deficiencies

One of the most overlooked causes of fatigue is a nutritional deficiency. Low levels of iron, vitamin B12, or vitamin D can significantly impact your energy and focus. These deficiencies are surprisingly common, even in people with relatively healthy diets. In some cases—especially in women—iron infusions can be particularly beneficial for those with iron deficiency when oral supplements aren't enough. Fortunately, these deficiencies are easy to diagnose through blood work and typically improve with the right treatment and dietary support.

3. Thyroid and Hormonal Imbalances

Your thyroid plays a key role in regulating metabolism and energy. When it’s underactive—a condition known as hypothyroidism—you may feel persistently sluggish, cold, or mentally foggy. Hormonal changes such as perimenopause, menopause, or low testosterone can also trigger fatigue, mood shifts, and sleep disturbances. While some hormonal imbalances like low testosterone or thyroid issues can be identified through lab testing, perimenopausal and menopausal changes are typically diagnosed based on symptoms and overall clinical evaluation.

4. Mental Health and Emotional Burnout

Chronic fatigue isn’t always physical—it can be deeply emotional. Ongoing stress, anxiety, and depression are major contributors to low energy and poor sleep. You might be going through the motions each day, but underneath, your mental health could be running on empty. At our Mountain View primary care clinic, we take emotional health seriously and offer resources to support your overall well-being.

5. Chronic Conditions

Several long-term medical conditions can lead to fatigue. These include diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic infections such as Epstein-Barr virus. If your fatigue is persistent and unexplainable, a thorough medical evaluation is key to identifying or ruling out any underlying illness.

6. Lifestyle Habits

Your daily routine could also be draining your energy. Skipping meals, drinking too much caffeine, not getting enough physical activity, or being chronically dehydrated can all contribute to that constant feeling of exhaustion. Even small adjustments—like regular meals, hydration, and gentle movement—can make a noticeable difference in your energy levels.

Lifestyle Changes to Combat Fatigue

Nutrition and Diet

Eating a balanced diet is essential for maintaining energy levels. Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, which can lead to energy crashes.

Regular Exercise

Incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can boost your energy levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial.

Stress Management Techniques

Practicing stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help alleviate mental fatigue. Finding time for hobbies and relaxation is equally important.

Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, so keep a water bottle handy.

Ready to Find the Root Cause of Your Fatigue?

If you’ve been feeling tired all the time and don’t know why, don’t ignore it—your body is trying to tell you something. Whether it’s related to sleep, nutrition, hormones, or chronic stress, a thorough evaluation with a primary care doctor can help you feel better.

We are happy to help both new and established patients with personalized care and thorough evaluation to support your well-being. Too tired to come into the office? No problem—video visits are available for patients anywhere in California. Your health is a priority.

Schedule an appointment today or call us to get started. Let’s work together to uncover the cause of your fatigue and help you reclaim your energy.

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Warmly,

Dr. Sapna Rajput, D.O.

650-254-6665

Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician

Primary Care Doctor in Mountain View, CA

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