Fatigue

Overview

Fatigue is a persistent feeling of tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy that is not relieved by rest. While it can result from lifestyle factors, stress, or sleep disturbances, ongoing fatigue may also indicate an underlying cardiovascular condition, especially if it occurs during mild activity or is accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, chest discomfort, or palpitations.

At Cardiology Care NYC, we assess whether fatigue is linked to heart dysfunction and create appropriate treatment strategies to restore energy and improve cardiovascular wellness.

Causes

When fatigue is related to the heart, it is often due to the body receiving inadequate oxygenated blood as a result of reduced cardiac output or circulatory inefficiency.

Fatigue may be associated with:

• Heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Arrhythmias
• Aortic or mitral valve disorders
• Hypertension-related cardiac strain
• Poor circulation or reduced blood flow
• Anemia or reduced oxygen transport

Additional contributing factors may include stress, sleep apnea, thyroid imbalance, dehydration, medication effects, or a sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms

Cardiac-related fatigue often worsens with mild activity and may be accompanied by other warning signs.

Common associated symptoms include:

• Tiredness after minimal exertion
• Shortness of breath with light activity
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally foggy
• Weakness or heaviness in the body
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Mild chest discomfort or pressure
• Swelling in the legs or ankles (in some cases)

If fatigue becomes persistent, progressively worse, or appears alongside chest pain or fainting, medical assessment is essential.

Diagnosis

At Cardiology Care NYC, diagnosis focuses on determining whether fatigue is due to a cardiovascular condition or reduced heart efficiency.

Diagnostic steps may include:

• Review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle
• Regular blood pressure monitoring to support cardiovascular health
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check heart rhythm
• Echocardiogram to assess heart pumping function
• Stress testing to evaluate the heart’s response during activity
• Holter monitoring for rhythm irregularities
• Cardiovascular screening for early detection of heart-related causes of fatigue

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and is focused on improving circulation, supporting heart performance, and restoring overall energy levels.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Engage in gentle, guided physical activity
• Improve sleep routine and stress management
• Follow a heart-healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol

Medications

If a heart-related cause is identified, medications may be prescribed to:

• Support heart function
• Control blood pressure
• Improve circulation and oxygen delivery
• Regulate heart rhythm

Ongoing Care

Regular monitoring helps assess fatigue levels, optimize treatment, and track cardiovascular progress. Continued care may include rhythm tracking, risk factor control, and long-term wellness planning.

When To See A Doctor

Schedule a cardiology consultation if you experience:

• Persistent tiredness not relieved by rest
• Fatigue that occurs during light activity
• Exhaustion accompanied by shortness of breath or chest discomfort
• Fatigue linked with dizziness, fainting, or palpitations
• Ongoing fatigue that affects daily function or quality of life

At Cardiology Care NYC, we help determine whether fatigue is heart-related and provide personalized strategies to improve energy, restore cardiovascular balance, and enhance overall well-being.