Chronic Yawning, Tears, and Fatigue: Possible Causes and Tests

Yawning with tears?

Experiencing constant yawning, tearing, nasal congestion, fatigue, frequent dreaming, and occasional tinnitus for two years raises concerns about underlying conditions.
It may be indicative of issues such as allergies, chronic sinusitis, sleep disorders, or even anxiety.
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
Recommended tests may include allergy testing, a nasal endoscopy, sleep studies, and possibly imaging studies like a CT scan of the sinuses to determine the underlying cause.

Andy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/05

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Andy,
In your letter, you mentioned that you experience constant yawning, tearing, nasal congestion, fatigue, frequent dreaming, and occasional tinnitus.
I recommend that you first visit a family medicine clinic, where a physician can conduct a detailed interview and physical examination to determine what further tests may be necessary.
I hope this information is helpful to you.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Po-Chang Chen
Department of Family Medicine
Keelung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2016/02/05

More Info

Chronic yawning, excessive tearing, nasal congestion, fatigue, vivid dreams, and occasional tinnitus (ear ringing) can be indicative of several underlying conditions. It is essential to approach these symptoms holistically, as they may stem from a combination of physical, psychological, and environmental factors.

Possible Causes
1. Sleep Disorders: Conditions such as sleep apnea can lead to chronic fatigue and excessive yawning. Sleep apnea causes interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime sleepiness. This could also explain the vivid dreams, as fragmented sleep can lead to more REM sleep episodes.

2. Allergies or Sinusitis: Nasal congestion and tearing can be symptoms of allergies or chronic sinusitis. Allergies can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, leading to congestion and excessive mucus production, which may also contribute to fatigue.

3. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors such as anxiety can manifest physically. Chronic stress can lead to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms like yawning and tearing. The body's response to stress often includes increased muscle tension and altered sleep patterns, which can exacerbate feelings of tiredness.

4. Depression: Depression can also lead to fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, and a general sense of malaise. It can cause a person to feel emotionally drained, which may lead to excessive yawning as the body tries to cope with the emotional burden.

5. Neurological Conditions: In rare cases, neurological issues such as multiple sclerosis or other disorders affecting the central nervous system could lead to symptoms like chronic yawning and fatigue. These conditions often require thorough neurological evaluation.

6. Medication Side Effects: If you are taking any medications, it is essential to consider that some may have side effects that include fatigue, yawning, or changes in tear production.

Recommended Tests and Evaluations
1. Sleep Study (Polysomnography): If sleep disorders are suspected, a sleep study can help diagnose conditions like sleep apnea. This test monitors various body functions during sleep, including brain activity, eye movement, heart rate, and breathing patterns.

2. Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, skin or blood tests can help identify specific allergens that may be causing nasal congestion and tearing.

3. Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC can help identify any underlying infections or anemia, which could contribute to fatigue.

4. Thyroid Function Tests: Thyroid disorders can lead to fatigue and other systemic symptoms. Testing thyroid hormone levels can help rule out conditions like hypothyroidism.

5. Neurological Evaluation: If neurological conditions are suspected, a consultation with a neurologist may be warranted. They may recommend imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan to assess brain health.

6. Psychological Assessment: Given the potential psychological factors, a mental health evaluation can help determine if anxiety or depression is contributing to your symptoms.

Conclusion
It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms in detail. They can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate tests based on your specific situation. Addressing these symptoms early can lead to better management and improved quality of life. Remember, it is essential to take care of both your physical and mental health, as they are often interconnected.

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