If you've been feeling tired all the time, TV doctor and NHS GP Dr Amir Khan has outlined the most common causes of fatigue - and when you should seek medical advice17:57, 05 Jun 2026Are you tired of constantly feeling tired? If that's the case, NHS GP and TV doctor Amir Khan has pinpointed the most frequent causes of the issue - and outlined what steps you can take to address it.‌The NHS recommends that adults should target an average of seven to nine hours of sleep, while children need between nine and 13 hours depending on their age. If you've been experiencing tiredness for several weeks without understanding why, if your exhaustion is affecting your everyday life, or if you're noticing other symptoms such as weight loss or mood shifts, it is advised that you see a doctor.‌In addition, if somebody informs you that you make gasping, snorting or choking sounds while sleeping, it's worthwhile getting medical advice.‌"As GPs it's one of the things we get asked about most and there are so many possibilities," said Dr Khan, who is best known for his appearances on Lorraine. He then went on to outline several causes of tiredness, which are:1. Lifestyle choices"Poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, stress and burnout can all cause tiredness," the doctor explained in a TikTok video. "Furthermore, being a busy parent or having caring responsibilities can also contribute to fatigue."2. Sleep qualityContent cannot be displayed without consent‌"I tell my patients that anything that might be impacting getting a good night's sleep including work patterns and work stress can of course contribute," Dr Khan added.3. MedicationThe GP also stressed that he regularly reviews the medication of those experiencing fatigue, as this could uncover any "culprits" behind your exhaustion."Things like sedatives, antipsychotics, opioids, anti-convulsant, antihistamines and beta blockers are common examples of drugs which can cause you to be tired all the time," he said.‌He emphasised, however, that nobody should ever alter or stop taking any medication without seeking medical advice first.4. Existing conditions"There are a number of medical conditions that simply have tiredness as a symptom," Dr Khan went on to note."Things like infections, heart disease and heart failure, POTS (Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), chronic lung conditions, mental health disorders, lupus, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid issues, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and of course, cancer."‌5. NutritionDr Khan also noted that nutritional deficiencies can lead to excessive tiredness - drawing particular attention to iron deficiency, anaemia, low levels of Vitamins D and B12, and folic acid as among the most frequently seen issues in his experience.He further pointed out that eating disorders leading to both underweight and overweight conditions can also play a role.The doctor concluded: "You must get any underlying causes of tiredness treated and any unexplained tiredness or tiredness associated with worrying symptoms like weight loss should always be investigated.Article continues below"But things we can all do to improve our energy levels include getting a good night's sleep - aim for seven to eight hours, avoid or reduce alcohol, eat a balanced diet, manage stress by making time for the things you enjoy, exercise or move regularly and maintain a healthy weight."