Why do I always feel sleepy?

Quality of life significantly deteriorates, and everyday activities become limited when we constantly feel tired and overwhelmingly sleepy. Why does daytime sleepiness occur, and what other symptoms should raise concern? It’s important not to ignore this condition, as it may result not only from insufficient rest but also signal more serious health problems, including chronic conditions.

Why does a person experience sleepiness?

The most common factors causing increased drowsiness and persistent fatigue include:

insufficient sleep over a long period, insomnia, irregular sleep patterns;
frequent stressful situations, heightened anxiety, depressive state, and other psychological disorders;
iron deficiency in the body, other forms of anemia, leading to reduced oxygen supply to internal organs and tissues;
low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism), resulting in decreased energy and constant lack of strength;
diabetes, heart failure, and other chronic conditions;
deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body;
diseases that cause persistent pain, preventing proper rest;
side effects of taking certain medications;
chronic fatigue syndrome.

Along with constant weakness, fatigue, and an overwhelming desire to sleep, there may be other symptoms depending on what caused this condition. Difficulties with concentration, memory, and attention span are possible. Some people experience decreased productivity, as severe fatigue makes it hard to manage daily tasks at home and at work. Mood changes may occur — a person can become nervous, irritable, or even depressed. Headaches, muscle pain, and loss of appetite are common. Even if falling asleep is possible, the sleep is restless, with frequent awakenings. Lack of proper rest negatively affects health, as weakened immunity leads to frequent illnesses and prolonged recovery. To accurately determine why there is constant drowsiness and severe weakness, it is essential to identify the root cause. If it is not chronic sleep deprivation due to work, caring for a small child, or other reasons, it is better to consult an experienced doctor for a full health assessment. Ignoring these symptoms is not advisable, as timely medical help can prevent more serious health problems than just excessive sleepiness.

What to Do in Case of Increased Sleepiness and Weakness?

To accurately determine why drowsiness occurs during the day or immediately after waking up in the morning, proper diagnosis is required. First of all, the doctor collects anamnesis (medical and family history, lifestyle data). After that, a physical examination is carried out to identify any factors that may cause severe sleepiness and persistent fatigue. The next step is laboratory testing, which may include: a complete blood count, blood glucose testing, thyroid function evaluation, and tests to determine vitamin and mineral levels in order to detect deficiencies in the body. Sleep habits are necessarily assessed, and polysomnography may also be performed to detect sleep disorders, in particular, sleep apnea. The specialist also evaluates symptoms of psychological disorders that can lead to fatigue. In some cases, the patient may be referred for CT or MRI scans of the brain to check for possible pathologies. Depending on the underlying cause of increased weakness and persistent sleepiness, additional specialized tests may be prescribed.

The results of diagnostics form the basis for developing a treatment plan or deciding on further examinations. Depending on what caused increased sleepiness and lack of energy, therapy is prescribed individually. General recommendations include:

Maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid using electronic devices before bedtime, do not drink coffee in the evening, and ensure a comfortable microclimate in the bedroom.
Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, or breathing exercises to reduce anxiety and stress.
Engage in regular fitness activities to improve body tone and sleep quality.
Follow a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, protein, and whole grains.
Maintain proper hydration (2–2.5 liters per day).
Timely treat existing conditions (such as diabetes, depression, anemia) and strictly follow the doctor’s recommendations.
Discuss with your doctor adjustments to your treatment plan if increased drowsiness and fatigue are side effects of medications.
Seek consultation with a psychotherapist if the cause of constant weakness and fatigue is psychological in nature.

Self-treatment may only worsen the situation and trigger undesirable reactions in the body. Therefore, if you constantly feel sleepy, lack energy and strength, it is important to seek medical help from an experienced specialist to determine the exact cause and receive proper treatment.

To prevent increased drowsiness and chronic fatigue, it is essential to develop healthy habits. First of all, ensure quality and regular sleep, which should last 7–8 hours, with going to bed and waking up preferably at the same time each day. A key preventive measure for overall health is proper nutrition, with a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, protein, and whole grains. Regular physical exercise should not be overlooked, as it helps improve mood, increases the body’s resistance to stress, supports a healthy weight, and enhances sleep quality. It is also important to learn stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises. Alcohol and caffeine intake should be minimized, and quitting smoking is highly recommended. Regular medical check-ups are vital to detect and treat health conditions in a timely manner.