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Published on: 4/7/2025

What Could Cause Sudden Extreme Fatigue in a Child?

Sudden extreme fatigue in a child can be due to simple reasons like not enough sleep or an infection, but it might also signal conditions like anemia or an immune system issue.

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Explanation

When a child suddenly feels very tired, several things could be causing it. One common reason is not getting enough sleep, which can happen if they have a change in routine or are under stress at school. Infections like a cold or the flu can also make a child feel very tired, even if other signs like a fever or cough aren’t very strong. Sometimes, if a child isn’t getting enough iron or proper nutrients, they might have anemia, a condition that makes you feel weak and tired. In other cases, fatigue might be linked to an immune problem or another chronic condition that needs checking. It is important to pay attention to any other symptoms your child might have, such as changes in their appetite, weight, or energy levels throughout the day. If the tiredness comes on suddenly and is very severe, or if it lasts for a while, you should talk to your child’s doctor. They can do tests to find out what might be causing the fatigue and help plan the best care.

(References)

  • Findlay SM. The tired teen: A review of the assessment and management of the adolescent with sleepiness and fatigue. Paediatr Child Health. 2008 Jan;13(1):37-42. doi: 10.1093/pch/13.1.37. PMID: 19119351; PMCID: PMC2528817.

  • Nijhof LN, van Brussel M, Pots EM, van Litsenburg RRL, van de Putte EM, van Montfrans JM, Nijhof SL. Severe Fatigue Is Common Among Pediatric Patients with Primary Immunodeficiency and Is Not Related to Disease Activity. J Clin Immunol. 2021 Aug;41(6):1198-1207. doi: 10.1007/s10875-021-01013-7. Epub 2021 Mar 17. PMID: 33728554; PMCID: PMC8310837.

  • De Nardi L, Lanzetta MA, Ghirigato E, Barbi E, Gortani G. Approach to the child with fatigue: A focus for the general pediatrician. Front Pediatr. 2022 Dec 2;10:1044170. doi: 10.3389/fped.2022.1044170. PMID: 36533226; PMCID: PMC9755349.

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