Sports fatigue

OVERWHELMING SUSTAINED FEELING OF EXHAUSTION AND DECREASED CAPACITY TO COMPLETE PHYSICAL EXERCISE


HCA UK sports medicine specialists can diagnose and treat sports fatigue and any underlying conditions

Enquiries & Appointments

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About sports fatigue

Sports fatigue can come on suddenly or after cumulative periods of exercise. It be a case of over-training, or it may point to an underlying health condition such as diabetesheart disease or thyroid issues. It's important to discuss excessive fatigue with your consultant to rule out any problems.

Need to know

Sports fatigue may be caused by chronic overtraining, long periods without planned recovery or rest, the wrong type of diet, lack of hydration and increased stress. Chronic overtraining symptoms are:

  • tiredness
  • altered sleep patterns
  • reduced sporting performance
  • longer recovery times
  • feeling moody
  • unusual heart rate at rest or during exercise
  • more injuries than usual

Acute fatigue is where your body isn't conditioned enough and cannot cope with the exercise. You may experience cramping and sore muscles a few days after exercise, or you may simply 'hit a wall'. This is often the case with long distance running.

Your consultant will discuss your sports fatigue symptoms with you and help make a diagnosis. They may order tests to rule out any underlying issues, such as infections, anaemia and iron deficiency.

Heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnoea and thyroid problems may also be investigated. They will also ask about your training schedule, diet and rest patterns to determine the actual cause.

If you have an underlying health condition, you may be referred to a specialist for further treatment. Otherwise, your fatigue may be cause by over-training.

Your consultant will help you strike the right balance between training and recovery to improve the symptoms. You may also see a dietician, to make sure you're getting appropriate nutrition.

Our Sports fatigue locations

Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)

Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)

170 Tottenham Court Road W1T 7HA London
The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Portland Hospital

The Portland Hospital

205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
The Princess Grace Hospital Outpatients

The Princess Grace Hospital Outpatients

30 Devonshire Street W1G 6PU London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.