Signs & Symptoms of Fatigue in Children

Feeling tired or fatigue is common among many children. Many factors are linked to fatigue, however, causes may differ from child to child. For this reason, it is essential for parents to know and understand the warning signs involved with this condition. With proper professional assistance, fatigue can be treated rather easily leaving your child active and playful once again.

Lack of Nutrition

• Inadequate nutrition can play a major role in fatigue.

  Many factors can contribute to your child experiencing fatigue. For starters, nutrition void of the adequate amount of vitamins and minerals can leave your child feeling drained. Sugar-laden diets, meals loaded with greasy french fries and burgers, and an array of other foods can definitely play a factor in low energy. Making a trip to a local health food store for some child appropriate vitamins or consulting with your child's pediatrician to elevate their nutritional habits can potentially help this problem. According to the Mayo Clinic, eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of liquids can help improve your child's level of functioning.

Anemia

• Routine doctor visits can help to prevent the onstart of fatigue.

  Anemia is one of the main factors for fatigue in children. Children with anemia are often void of energy due to a low iron in the blood. Children who suffer with anemia receive less oxygen to the brain causing weakness and exhaustion. To stop the occurance of anemia, Children's Hospital Boston suggests that parents make certain that their children are receiving an adequate amount of iron from thier diet or taking a multi-vitamin with iron. It's crucial for parents to bring their child to regular routine doctor visits in order to nip this in the bud to prevent the on start of fatigue.

Lack of Exercise

• Inactivity can potentially lead to fatigue.

  Some children are simply fatigued because of their inactivity. Proper exercise is important and must be initiated if your child doesn't receive enough physical activity. Try to initiate a family exercise day each week. Swimming, biking, and yoga can be very helpful. This will encourage everyone, even your child, to participate in exercising and family bonding too.

Stress

• Depression in children can often lead to fatigue.

  Yes, children can suffer from depression and this in itself can lead to fatigue. The Mayo Clinic states as well that fatigue is a common symptom of mental health problems such as depression and grief. Try to make sure your child is mentally sound by always asking about his or her day and activities. Make certain that she understands you, the parent, are here to listen and respect what she has to share.

Lack of Sleep

• It's no getting around the fact that children need proper rest at night. No television and loud music--just peaceful sleep. According to UV Medicine, a child's environment can add to their fatigue (such as loud noises). If you think improper rest is the cause of your child's fatigue, don't be afraid to make the first move. Initiate an earlier bed time, keep it consistent and record your findings. This may be the solution to your child's sluggishness.