I have been experiencing brief but frequent episodes of extreme exhaustion. I feel pain in my joints when I exercise or stand for more than 10 minutes. What could be the problem?

Jean Dear Jean,

You have not specified your age and how long you have been having episodes of exhaustion, how many times it occurs per day or per week, and whether it is related to not eating?

Episodic weakness can occur due to electrolyte imbalance, which can occur if somebody works in hot sun without due precautions or takes irregular meals. This will be associated with joint pain as well. Under functioning of the thyroid gland, when not advanced can cause intermittent exhaustion and joints can pain due to the weakness.

Somebody having diabetes can have weakness and joint pain. The weakness may be episodic, when meals are taken irregularly. One can feel weak due to low blood sugar levels as well, which occurs when food intake is delayed. Depression, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome are other conditions which can cause episodic weakness with pain in joints. Rarely chronic non bacterial infections may manifest as just weakness and joint pain. Joint pain may not be related to the weakness and may occur independently due to some form of arthritis.

It is advisable that you get tested for diabetes and thyroid functions. Try to take balanced timely meals and adequate rest. Avoid alcohol and tobacco use, as both these substances can cause weakness and joint pain.

Dr. Rachna Pande is a specialist in internal medicine at Ruhengeri Hospital