Weakness - Causes and Treatment

General weakness and feeling weak

Weakness is usually understood as a sudden onset of physical weakness, but there is no loss of consciousness. Instead, the person is typically "black-eyed" and dizzy, plus other symptoms such as nausea, trembling, muscle twitching and palpitations. Such onset of weakness often has relatively harmless causes, such as hypoglycaemia, lack of sleep or fluid, resulting in severe physical fatigue and lack of energy. In addition, however, various diseases for extreme physical weakness come into consideration, such as cardiac arrhythmia or the so-called "sleep apnea syndrome". Psychological causes such as burnout syndrome or depression also play an important role. Correspondingly, repeated attacks of weakness or persistent weakness should be clarified by a physician to act early if necessary and to prevent possible risks.

contents

Weakness: first signs
symptoms
causes
Difference circulatory collapse / weakness
mental breakdown
Treatment for weakness
Naturopathy

Weakness: first signs

Before it comes to a feeble attack, the body usually shows often in advance that something is wrong. In general, these "signs" include a general weakness, chronic fatigue or fatigue and low resilience. In many cases thoughts or expressions such as "I can not do it" or "I can not do it anymore", those affected feel uncomfortable, overwhelmed and depressed. Even outsiders often the strong exhaustion of their counterpart is not hidden, by those affected by driving or "through the wind", particularly sensitive and overtired, what is usually also physically recognizable by rings under the eyes, paleness or pale to grayish skin.

symptoms

If it comes to a seizure of weakness, this can be manifested by different symptoms. In most cases, however, it comes to dizziness, tremors, muscle twitching, palpitations, an accelerated pulse, in addition to the hot flushes, nausea, feelings of numbness and hearing problems are possible. It is also typical that the person is "black in the eye", the legs feel soft and unstable, creating the impression that you would fall over immediately. In many cases, there is also blurred vision, eyelashes and a dull, dusky sensation. Unlike fainting, however, a fainting attack does not result in a loss of consciousness. Instead, the person concerned is still able to respond to external stimuli such as to answer simple questions.

causes

A feeble attack usually occurs only temporarily and often has relatively "harmless" causes such as hunger, dehydration, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), extensive sports training or tiredness, which leads to excessive fatigue and powerlessness. In this case, the body simply has no energy reserves left, which makes one dizzy and black before the eyes and one has the feeling that one can barely stand on one's feet. Likewise, an extremely stressful working day or a stressful situation such as The loss of a loved one or heartbroken love lead to the body being deprived of so much energy that the person "can not do it anymore" and has to lie down and regain his strength.

In addition, however, various diseases can be responsible for a spell, especially if the symptoms last longer and not just refer to a general exhaustion. Here, for example, a delayed flu or pathological sleep disorders such as the so-called "sleep apnea syndrome" come into consideration, which is caused by respiratory arrest (apnea) during sleep, resulting in a pronounced daytime fatigue or even falling asleep and a number of other symptoms. Also, hypothyroidism or anemia can lead to severe fatigue and fainting, as well as diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease), cancer (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma), or the side effects of certain drugs or treatments (e.g., chemotherapy)..

Heart disease can also be a possible cause. If, for example, fatigue, sweats, respiratory distress and / or chest tightness precede the onset of weakness, under certain circumstances a so-called "bradycardia" may be present. This is a cardiac arrhythmia in which the heart beats too slowly at less than 60 beats per minute or can even expose it in the short term, in addition to coronary artery disease or cardiac insufficiency (heart failure). Often, persistent low blood pressure is responsible for circulatory dysfunction in the form of fatigue, facial pallor, dizziness, headache, cold hands and feet, and blackening of the eyes. As a result, sufferers often have an increased tendency to faint or unconscious, as the brain in this case can not be adequately supplied with oxygen-rich blood.

In addition, it often comes during pregnancy to extreme fatigue and weakness, which can range to a fainting fit, combined with the feeling of not being able to cope with everyday life. This is usually due to the hormonal and metabolic changes at the beginning of pregnancy, the fatigue occurs later, on the other hand, more iodine or iron deficiency, low blood pressure or blood sugar fluctuations come into consideration.

Alcohol abuse and nutrition also play a major role in chronic fatigue and weakness, so eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia often cause fainting due to the lack of energy reserves. In addition, psychological causes are also of central importance when it comes to a feeling of constant overworking or physical, emotional and mental exhaustion. For in this case, it can also be for example a depression or a burnout syndrome, especially if in addition to the drive weakness also a certain indifference to other people, decreasing performance, social withdrawal, loss of vitality or physical symptoms such as sleep disorders, headaches or back pain occur.

Difference circulatory collapse / weakness

In contrast to a feeble onset, sufferers in a "circulatory collapse" suddenly, but only for a short while, lose consciousness of why it is often referred to as "fainting" or medically as "syncope". The "consciousness" here means the ability to perceive the environment and to communicate, which is impaired in this case, but the short duration of this condition, in turn, limits the syncope from other forms of unconsciousness, such as e.g. the coma.

A circulatory collapse results from an insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain. Again, numerous causes can be considered, although these remain unclear in about one third of the cases (idiopathic syncope). Often, however, it also happens that parts of the autonomic nervous system overreact due to certain stimuli, whereby a large part of the total blood volume in the body "sagged" and the blood temporarily unable to flow back to the heart or can be pumped into the circulation. As a result, there is a short-term undersupply of the brain with oxygen-rich blood, which eventually leads to fainting. A neurally mediated syncope can have a variety of causes, such as mental stress, prolonged standing, severe pain (eg, sports injury), fright, anxiety, or extreme cold, also can such powerlessness by alcohol, drugs, stuffy air or overcrowded premises are favored. However, autonomic nervous system disorders ("autonomic neuropathy") or the so-called "carotid sinus syndrome" can also be considered, in which bradycardia or even cardiac arrest can occur due to pressure on the internal carotid artery (for example through tight shirt collars). In addition, the neural mediated circulatory collapses also include the "pressoric syncope", e.g. can be caused by sneezing, coughing or pressing urine or defecation.

A second group form the so-called "orthostatic syncope". With this term, medical professionals call that form of circulatory collapse, which begins at the moment of getting up or erecting (Greek: "orthostasis") due to a drop in blood pressure. The best example of this is getting up quickly from bed, which in some cases causes the blood to sink to the lower parts of the body, which in turn does not adequately supply the brain for a short time. As a result, it comes to warning "signals" such as dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, sweating or visual and hearing disorders, but also possible chest pain and discomfort in the back or neck. There are many reasons for orthostatic syncope as well, e.g. Dehydration or varicose veins in which more blood builds up in the legs due to dilated veins. However, different neurological causes are also possible, whereby the disorders in principle can affect all levels of the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, body nerves). In addition, internal diseases such as diabetes or chronic kidney failure can attack the autonomic nervous system over time (diabetic neuropathy). In addition, medications (such as certain blood pressure lowering drugs, psychotropic drugs, painkillers) may favor orthostatic syncope, as well as prolonged bed-rest, as this leads to a heavy physical strain and thus quickly to "teething troubles" such as dizziness and fainting.

In cardiac syncope, on the other hand, the heart is the trigger. However, a distinction is made between an impotence due to a cardiac arrhythmia (arrhythmia) and a collapse, which results from a structural change of the heart. Most commonly, however, cardiac syncope occurs as a result of an arrhythmia ("Adam Stokes attack"), in which the heart is either significantly too slow (bradycardia), too fast (tachycardia, palpitations) or irregular (ventricular fibrillation), or even too Misfires or heart stumbling (extrasystole) comes. In addition to other diseases of the heart but can ensure that not enough blood from the heart is pumped into the bloodstream (cardiac output), which in turn causes a fainting. Here, for example, a narrowing of the main artery (aortic stenosis) comes into consideration, as well as a heart valve defect, a heart attack or a disease of the heart muscle ("cardiomyopathy").

Therefore, cardiac syncope may pose a serious danger or even mortal danger - especially if it is not noticed in time. Therefore, persons who feel pain or pressure in the chest in addition to a short fainting should always immediately stop the emergency call below 112 in order to rule out serious heart disease. Similarly, in case of facial pallor, cold sweat, increased thirst and blue lips, a doctor or hospital should be consulted immediately, as these may be signs of circulatory shock. In addition, however, any other form of powerlessness should be discussed with the doctor in order to detect possible disorders or underlying diseases and to treat them accordingly. In the acute case of powerlessness, it is also important that people present react quickly and, above all, correctly. In addition to the call of the emergency physician, this first means the control of the breathing: If this is intact, it is important to put the person in the stable side position and repeatedly monitor the respiration, with a respiratory arrest, however, must immediately begin with a CPR , In order to free the airway of any blood, vomit or tongue, the head of the unconscious should also be gently tilted backwards and raised at the same time the chin. It is also important not to leave the unconscious alone until the arrival of the emergency doctor, but instead to cover him for warmth and to calm in case of awakening from the short fainting.

mental breakdown

Frequently, a fainting spell is also equated with a nervous breakdown, in which case the "collapse" in this case is not due to physical exhaustion and fatigue, as in the case of the former. Instead, the term "nervous breakdown" usually describes a mental state of emergency resulting from a traumatic experience such as the observation of a serious traffic accident or a personal fate such as mistreatment, abuse or death of a very close person (child, partner, etc.). In addition, a nervous breakdown can also be caused by other psychological stress such as persistent workplace bullying or private conflict. Such a collapse can be accompanied by different symptoms, usually the affected feel depressed and powerless and also have an effect on outsiders exhausted, helpless and burned out. The often-spoken phrase "I can not do more" describes the feeling that one can no longer cope with everyday life on one's own and is overwhelmed by the demands of life. As a result, the psychological stress manifests itself for example in the form of tantrums, cramps, depressive moods or extreme tiredness, but also possible mood swings or so-called "flashbacks" in which traumatic experiences are re-lived long after the actual event. In addition, there are a number of physical symptoms such as severe sweating, headache, palpitations or nausea and vomiting. If the nervous breakdown occurs as part of a so-called "post-traumatic stress disorder", panic attacks and personality changes often occur, which in turn frequently lead to relationship disorders, depression, (auto-) aggressive behavior or even suicide attempts.

In the case of a nervous breakdown, it is especially important not to leave the person in this helpless situation alone and to prevent serious consequences such as suicide attempts. Accordingly, any statement in this direction should necessarily be taken first, because behind these always hide calls for help. If a post-traumatic stress disorder exists, it usually requires intensive psychotherapy, in which sufferers learn to process traumatic experiences. Which form of therapy makes sense in each case depends on the extent of the symptoms and the individual situation of the person affected (confrontation therapy, psychoanalysis, etc.). At the same time, some psychotropic drugs are also being used, although in view of the potential risks, they should only be taken under careful medical supervision and not over a longer period of time.

Treatment for weakness

If signs of feebleness appear, such as dizziness, nausea or blackness in front of the eyes, etc., it is advisable to lie on your back and keep your legs high. Thus, on the one hand, the sagging of the blood in the lower half of the body, but also a fall in the case of a possible fainting prevented. However, if the body "goes on strike", medical treatment does not always have to be done. Instead, the fatigue usually disappears quickly on its own again, by the person concerned remedy the cause and, for example. provide the body with sufficient nutrition and fluids, rest accordingly, or avoid strenuous exercise as needed.

In case of permanent fatigue and exhaustion or recurrent fainting, however, a corresponding therapy should take place. Especially those who suffer from chronic weakness, should first check their habits and possibly integrate more sleep and rest periods for physical and mental relaxation in everyday life and waive heavy physical exertion for the time being. In general, it is also advisable to respect a healthy lifestyle with a healthy and balanced diet and regular exercise. In addition, sufferers can do a lot more to strengthen their circulation and thereby prevent further attacks - which is especially true for people who tend anyway to a weaker circulation. Accordingly, possible triggers such as e.g. long standing, longer stays in stuffy, warm air or crowded rooms, alcohol or drugs are avoided. In addition, compression stockings can support the return of the blood from the legs to the heart, which is especially recommended for hours of sitting activities.

The medical treatment of chronic weakness then takes place depending on the cause. If, for example, a "delayed" flu is the cause, antibiotics are often used, as well as heart rhythm disturbances, metabolic diseases such as diabetes or hypothyroidism are usually treated specifically with medication. If medication itself is the trigger for the weakness, it is important to talk to the doctor about alternatives - and never the medication on their own modified or even stopped to avoid health risks.

In addition, to promote a healthy lifestyle, for example, information events or brochures on the subject of "nutrition" (for example, German Society for Nutrition e.V., www.dge.de) or provide individual nutritional counseling support. Here, affected persons can receive help and information, for example in the case of illness-related nutritional problems, nutrition during certain phases of life (pregnancy, age, etc.) or weight loss. If the weakness can be due to negative stress or other psychological causes such as Burnout syndrome, depression or an eating disorder can be attributed to relaxation techniques and stress relief exercises such as yoga, autogenic training or meditation are highly recommended. On the other hand, it is advisable in most cases, to seek psychotherapeutic help, since the causes of feelings such as excessive demands, excessive exhaustion or inner emptiness are usually in deeper mental health problems and conflicts.

Naturopathy

In addition to the measures described to prevent a fainting syndrome, the
Naturopathy some sensible and effective approaches to relieve severe fatigue and weakness. For example, various medicinal plants such as lavender, valerian, St. John's wort or the ginseng root, which can not only help against fatigue and weakness, but also to strengthen the immune system and in case of lack of concentration, have proved their worth. If a circulatory weakness is responsible for the onset of weakness, for example, Guarana and Mate are good, as well as beneficial can be here a mistletoe tea. Also rosemary - drunk as tea - strengthen in fatigue and weakness and, moreover, act by strengthening the cardiovascular system against low blood pressure. For the preparation, one teaspoon of rosemary leaves is doused with hot water, then the infusion is allowed to stand covered for about 15 minutes. After distilling the tea is ready, in the best case, a cup should be drunk twice a day - but pregnant women do without it better, since rosemary in high dosage can promote labor contractions. In aromatherapy, rosemary is also considered activating, revitalizing and balancing, so that a bath can also be very effective. It is advisable to boil 50 grams of rosemary leaves in one liter of water and leave to soak for 30 minutes. Then the broth is added to the bath and bathed for 15 to 20 minutes

Respiratory therapy can also help with chronic fatigue, stress and fatigue by strengthening the respiratory muscles and immune system and promoting overall performance and physical and mental well-being. For this purpose, it is deliberately sat upright twice a day, with the feet placed firmly on the floor next to each other. In this relaxed posture, inhale deeply through the nose, then hold the air for a short time and finally exhale slowly but vigorously through the mouth. This exercise should be repeated 10 times.

Highly recommended for "mental fatigue" are also applications of hydrotherapy according to Sebastian Kneipp, by which the immune system, the skin and many metabolic processes are stimulated and strengthened. For example, low blood pressure, circulatory insufficiency, and fatigue can help with cold arm-castings, for which the cold jet of water from the shower slowly rises from the back of the right arm to the shoulder and back inside. This process is repeated twice more, then the whole thing is done three times on the left side. With immune and circulatory weakness, depression and fatigue, replacement foot baths can also be very helpful. These are each a bowl of cold and one with warm (37 to 38 ° C) water needed: First, the feet for about 5 minutes in the hot water, then held for about 10 seconds in the cold water. Thereafter, the change from warm to cold is made at least two to three more times, the finish should be a cold application. In the end, the legs and toe gaps are dried and warm socks are put on.

The special advantage over many other methods is that the Kneipp applications can usually be carried out at home without much effort and expense, and can thus be easily integrated into the daily routine. Nevertheless, it is advisable to consult with a Kneipp doctor or alternative practitioner beforehand to advise which applications are most appropriate in each case. (No)