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Weakness

By , About.com Guide

Updated December 04, 2003

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Other names: fatigue

Some causes related to cardiovascular disease: Generalized weakness or fatigue, usually manifested as a greatly reduced exercise tolerance, is a common symptom in patients with cardiomyopathy or valvular heart disease leading to heart failure.

Some causes related to other disorders: A host of medical problems can cause weakness or fatigue, including cancer, thyroid disease, anemia, inflammatory disorders, infection, kidney disease, liver disease, and depression.

Significance: Generalized weakness and fatigue are invariably disabling symptoms, and therefore require a thorough medical evaluation, whatever the cause.

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