Fatigue
in Women

Symptoms Associated with Fatigue

Fatigue affects more than just your physical energy, it can also significantly impact your cognitive abilities, emotions and behaviour. Below are some examples of how fatigue may influence different aspects of your well-being:

Physical Symptoms

• Lack of energy and exhaustion
• Muscle aches and weakness
• Joint pain, headaches, nausea and constipation

Cognitive Symptoms

• Brain fog and lack of motivation
• Difficulty with concentration and memory
• Impaired decision-making abilities

Emotional Symptoms

• Anxiety and depression
• Low tolerance for stress
• Increased irritability

Behavioural Symptoms

• Loss of appetite
• Avoidance of social activities
• Decreased productivity at work and home

Testing for Medical Causes of Fatigue

Clinical Labs’ National Director of Clinical Pathology, Associate Professor Chris Barnes, has made it easier for doctors to identify potential medical causes of fatigue in women. He has developed a recommended panel of seven blood tests that can help guide treatment and further investigations for patients experiencing fatigue. These tests include:

Thyroid Function Tests

Thyroid dysfunction, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can cause fatigue by affecting hormone production. Thyroid function tests diagnose these conditions, which can be managed with hormonal therapies.

Glucose Levels

Fatigue can be a sign of diabetes or pre-diabetes, where insulin regulation affects glucose levels. Fasting glucose tests or HbA1c measurements help detect these conditions early, guiding treatment to address both fatigue and metabolic issues.

Full Blood Examination (FBE)

FBE detects conditions that may cause fatigue, such as iron-deficiency anaemia, often linked to chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy periods or gastrointestinal bleeding). It can also identify anaemia from vitamin deficiencies, chronic diseases, and, rarely, blood cancers.

Iron Studies

In addition to iron-deficiency anaemia, conditions like haemochromatosis (iron overload) can cause fatigue. Iron studies measures ferritin and transferrin saturation to guide treatment, which may include dietary changes, iron supplements or further investigation of elevated iron levels.

Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels

A deficiency in these vitamins can cause megaloblastic anaemia, where large, inefficient red blood cells lead to fatigue. Causes include poor dietary intake, malabsorption (e.g., coeliac disease), or pernicious anaemia, which occurs due to a deficiency in the protein that helps your body absorb vitamin B12. 

Vitamin D Levels

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with chronic fatigue, musculoskeletal pain and weakness. This essential nutrient supports bone health and immune function. Deficiency can result from limited sun exposure, poor dietary intake or conditions that affect nutrient absorption.

Summary

If you’ve been experiencing fatigue for more than two weeks, it’s important to book an appointment with your GP. 

During the visit, your doctor will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle and any medications you’re taking to help identify potential causes of your fatigue. They will likely order appropriate pathology tests recommended to assess Fatigue in Women.  

For Referring Doctors: Click here to read Associate Professor Chris Barnes’ article, Fatigue in Women: A pathological perspective, and for instructions on ordering the Fatigue in Women testing panel with Clinical Labs.