If you’re constantly feeling under the weather, it might be worth considering a trip to the doctor.
NHS GP, Doctor Shireen, has urged anyone experiencing persistent fatigue to get a blood test, which could help identify a range of potential issues. In a viral TikTok video, she explained that constant tiredness could indicate anything from a vitamin deficiency to an underactive thyroid.
While it’s easy to dismiss such symptoms as a sign of needing more sleep, it’s crucial to rule out any underlying health problems. In her video, Doctor Shireen advised: “I’m an NHS GP and if you are feeling tired all the time, I’m going to tell you the things you should ask your GP to check for on your blood test. Get a pen and paper ready and let’s get into it.”
Full blood count
She emphasised the importance of getting a full blood count (FPC) as a first step, which can help determine whether you have anaemia – a condition characterised by low haemoglobin levels. She added: “Haemoglobin is found in the blood and it carries oxygen around your blood to your organs. If this is low, you will feel tired.”
It’s also recommended to have your doctor check your iron levels, especially if you’re a “woman of child-bearing age”. If you experience menstrual cycles or withdrawal bleeds from contraceptive pills, you could be losing iron, potentially leading to anaemia. Low iron levels can also result in side effects such as hair loss and brittle nails.
Thyroid levels
Next, Dr Shireen advises getting your thyroid levels checked through a blood test. The thyroid, a gland located in the neck, produces a hormone called thyroxine that “helps with metabolism and all sorts of other things”.
The GP explained: “If your thyroid is underactive and you’re not producing enough thyroxine, we can pick this up in a blood test and this will also be making you feel quite tired.”
Vitamin deficiencies
Several vitamin deficiencies, including D and B12, can cause fatigue. Dr Shireen said she sees vitamin D deficiencies “all the time” in patients, as in the UK, we often don’t get enough of the vitamin from the sun. She recommended taking a vitamin D supplement from October to March or all year round if you work indoors or typically cover up your skin.
The GP highlighted the importance of Vitamin B12 and folate (also known as vitamin B9) in our diets. She pointed out that those on plant-based diets are likely to be deficient in B12 unless they supplement, as it’s mainly found in animal products. Folate, on the other hand, is abundant in “leafy green vegetables”, and a lack of this vitamin can lead to fatigue.
Hormone levels
Additionally, Doctor Shireen emphasised the need for women, especially those aged 36 and above who may be entering perimenopause, to check their hormone levels, noting: “Perimenopause is a really overlooked potential cause of tiredness.”
She advised anyone with these symptoms to consult with a GP if they have concerns.