Fatigue Beyond Iron and Vitamin Deficiency: A Holistic Approach to Chronic Tiredness

Examining Details: Seeing Beyond the Obvious in Chronic Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common complaints in clinical practice. While iron and vitamin deficiencies are often the first culprits investigated, many patients continue to feel chronically exhausted even after addressing these issues. At Leicester Holistic GP, we take a deeper, more holistic approach — looking beyond standard causes and explore causes such as cellular energy production, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function.

1. Clinical Assessment: Looking Beyond the Obvious

The journey begins with a thorough consultation. We explore your medical history, symptom timeline, lifestyle factors, and past investigations. This helps us build a detailed picture and tailor the investigations accordingly.

2. Rule Out Common Deficiencies First

We always begin by checking for the most common and correctable causes of fatigue:

• Iron studies (especially ferritin and transferrin saturation)

• Vitamin B12 and folate levels

• Vitamin D status

• Full blood count and thyroid function

If you are found to be iron deficient, we may recommend a doctor-supervised iron infusion using Ferinject®, a high-dose, low-side-effect option administered safely in our clinic. We also offer fast and effective vitamin B12 injections and vitamin D shots to correct common deficiencies without delay.

3. Going Deeper: Hormonal, Immune & Gut Factors

If the basics are normal, the next step is to explore hidden or functional causes of fatigue, such as:

• Adrenal gland causes.

• Sex hormone imbalances (e.g., low testosterone, perimenopause)

• Post-viral fatigue (e.g., Epstein-Barr virus or long COVID)

This broader workup allows us to identify patients who may not be anaemic or vitamin-deficient, but who still struggle with deep-seated energy problems.

4. The Mitochondrial Connection: Cellular Energy Under the Microscope

For patients with persistent fatigue and no clear diagnosis, we consider mitochondrial dysfunction — a key, often-overlooked factor in long-term fatigue.

Mitochondria are the cellular "engines" responsible for producing ATP, the body’s energy currency. When these engines are impaired, even routine activities can feel exhausting.

At Leicester Holistic GP Clinic, we support mitochondrial function using advanced therapies.

5. Monitoring Progress: Long-Term, Personalised Care

We track each patient’s progress through regular reviews and symptom scoring, repeating blood work and adjusting protocols as needed. Our aim is to move beyond simply “ruling out illness” — and instead, actively build back energy, resilience, and well-being.

Still Tired Despite Normal Tests? We Can Help.

Book a consultation with our experienced doctors at Leicester Holistic GP Clinic. Whether you're looking to explore intravenous nutrition or recover from long COVID or chronic illness, we’ll guide you through a structured and compassionate approach.