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It is known as “spring asthenia” because it generally appears at that time of year. It is estimated that it affects 2% of the population and is a symptom of psychological fatigue that particularly affects women in those age-groups where physical changes are taking place, such as adolescence and the menopause. 

Given that until fairly recently, this complaint was practically unheard of, there is a tendency to link it to the pace of life in today’s society and the high demands required by our daily work. People suffering from asthenia feel generally exhausted and lack vitality and their ability to carry out everyday tasks may be reduced by up to 50%. 

This kind of tiredness appears gradually first thing in the morning and develops whilst carrying out everyday activities, including the simplest of tasks, and is sometimes accompanied by other symptoms such as sleeping disorders, concentration issues and memory disorders, irritability and low spirits.  It can also be a constant condition, without having engaged in any physical activity.

A temporary complaint
Generally, it is a temporary complaint which usually lets up after a few days, without requiring any treatment. A few cases may be more serious; when sufferers are already exhausted or are depressed, anxious or stressed they may be predisposed to more severe asthenia. It may also stem from lung or heart complaints or infections. In such cases, acute cases of asthenia are registered with more specific symptoms, which may be treated according to the disease that causes them. 

During the period between winter and summer which is spring, with its temperature changes and greater daylight hours, vitality can be affected. In fact, there are people who have cyclothymic vitality, in other words, they suffer with seasonal changes. The body produces neurohormonal substances which determine the vitality and intensity of the activity. 

These substances include endorphins, neurotransmitters produced by the pituitary gland, which are responsible for satisfactory sensations and which fight discomfort or serotonin, which is related to our emotions and moods. If serotonin levels are low, this may lead to depression, sleeping problems, obsessive-compulsive disorders and even suicide. 

Social factors must also be taken into consideration, which are related to the patient’s pace of life, their emotional stability, work and family environment. All of this can also mean that vitality is low. In such cases, a typical work day is usually analysed, to see the extent to which the body is pushed and whether it is able to respond and recover. 

Follow a balanced diet
Regardless, it is important to follow a healthy diet, drink two litres of water a day, sleep the required number of hours – a fundamental point – and try to do physical exercise, as well as relaxation exercises. In a varied diet consumption of fruit and raw vegetables should be increased due to their mineral, vitamin and phytonutrient content. You can include high-energy foods such as dried fruit, chocolate, pulses and pasta and if this is not enough, you can take a mineral or vitamin supplement. 

Other dietary supplements are also highly recommended such as brewer’s yeast, which contains B-group vitamins, pollen, for its balancing and energy properties and royal jelly, which is highly suitable in cases of mental and physical fatigue, not forgetting wholemeal products and trace elements such as iron, copper and phosphorus. 

Meanwhile, it is sensible to reduce our consumption of ready meals, fried foods, fizzy and alcoholic drinks, foods rich in saturated fats and cholesterol, as well as what are known as “fast sugars” such as shop-bought cake. Likewise, it is recommended that we do not overdo our consumption of stimulants such as coffee, tea and spices.