Feeling Constantly Tired: Is It a Liver Issue or Sleep Disorder? - Family Medicine

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Constantly feeling sleepy?


Hello Doctor, I am the patient #143991.
When I stay up late (around 1 AM), I feel extremely nauseous and want to vomit either at that moment or the next morning.
Could this be related to a liver issue? Two years ago, when I entered university, I had a blood test and my liver function test (SGPT) was 21.
Should I monitor this further or go directly to the hospital for an examination? Thank you, Doctor!

Ms. Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/05

Dr. Xu Peiqi reply Family Medicine


It should not be the case; it is recommended to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and to avoid staying up late as much as possible.

Reply Date: 2019/03/05

More Info


Feeling constantly tired can be a perplexing issue, and it’s understandable to wonder if it might be related to liver health or a sleep disorder. Based on the information provided, it’s important to consider several factors that could contribute to your fatigue.

Firstly, while liver health can indeed impact overall well-being, the symptoms you describe—feeling nauseous after late nights and experiencing persistent tiredness—may not be solely indicative of liver issues. Your previous liver function test showing an SGPT level of 21 is within the normal range, suggesting that your liver is functioning well at that time. However, liver function tests can vary, and if you have concerns, it may be prudent to have them re-evaluated, especially if you have other symptoms or risk factors.

Fatigue can arise from a multitude of sources, including sleep disorders, lifestyle factors, and psychological issues. If you are experiencing poor sleep quality or irregular sleep patterns, this could significantly contribute to your feelings of tiredness. Conditions such as sleep apnea, insomnia, or even restless leg syndrome can disrupt your sleep cycle, leading to daytime fatigue. If you suspect that your sleep quality is poor, it might be beneficial to consult a sleep specialist who can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a sleep study.

Moreover, environmental factors can also play a role in sleep quality. Noise, light, and even room temperature can affect how well you sleep. If you are sleeping in a noisy environment or have other disturbances, it might be worth addressing these issues to improve your sleep quality.

In addition to sleep disorders, psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression can manifest as fatigue. Even if you do not consciously feel stressed, your body may still be responding to underlying emotional or psychological issues. Consulting with a mental health professional could provide insights into whether psychological factors are contributing to your fatigue.

Lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, also significantly impact energy levels. A balanced diet rich in nutrients can help maintain energy levels, while regular physical activity can improve sleep quality and overall health. If you find yourself leading a sedentary lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise could be beneficial.

Given your symptoms of nausea after late nights, it’s also worth considering dietary factors. Eating heavy meals or consuming alcohol late at night can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and affect sleep quality. If you notice a pattern between your eating habits and your symptoms, adjusting your diet may help alleviate some of your issues.

In conclusion, while liver health is an important aspect of overall well-being, your symptoms may be more closely related to sleep quality, lifestyle factors, or psychological issues. If your fatigue persists despite making lifestyle changes, or if you develop additional symptoms, it would be wise to seek medical advice. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of your fatigue and guide you toward appropriate treatment options.

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