Suggest Remedy For Fatigue In An Elderly Person

Posted on Thu, 16 Apr 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 16 Apr 2015 Answered on

Wed, 6 May 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I recently discovered that I am panting and worn out with little effort. It seems to have been coming on worse and worse for over a year. Two years ago I could walk 36 hole in one day carrying my clubs. I am 73 years old and have not exercised much the last two winters, but then again I have never exercised much over winter. I am concerned about starting an exercise program because I do not know what is wrong. What could the problem be and what is recommended do do about it?

Answered by Dr. Shoaib Khan (30 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
A few possibilities and how to check on them recommended for you sir

Detailed Answer:
Hello sir and welcome.

Thank you for writing to us.

I have gone through your query with diligence and would like you to know that I am here to help. In my opinion taking into consideration that you have always been healthy and have no underlying chronic conditions, there are a few causative factors that can cause panting or reduced stamina if I may call it that in all age groups and I would like to list those causes out for you so you can go ahead with a complete physical and get these ruled out/confirmed.

They are:

+Heart abnormalities: It is always wise to keep a check on your cardiac health once you cross the age of 40 years

+Anemia: Depending on your diet and so on, anaemia can settle in, especially in the elderly

+Respiratory abnormalities: Various respiratory conditions can cause difficulty in breathing, and so I would request a check on your respiratory system with the help of a chest x-ray, ABG, etc.

+Blood pressure related: Changes in blood pressure can cause exhaustion

+Nutrient abnormalities: Deficiencies in nutrients (e.g. iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, etc.) can all cause exhaustion, lethargy, reduced energy levels, reduced stamina, etc. So a check on these parameters which are again diet related will help. Vitamin D especially can be related to winter (lack of exposure to the sun)

I hope you find my response both helpful and informative. Please feel free to write back to me for any further clarifications, I am always here to help.

Best wishes.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar