Fatigue is one of the most common and most underestimated effects of cardiac arrest. Many survivors find that they tire far more easily than before — sometimes feeling exhausted after activities that previously required no effort at all.
This fatigue has several causes. The brain and body undergo significant physiological stress during cardiac arrest and the subsequent period of intensive care. The brain in particular may have experienced a period of reduced oxygen (hypoxia), which requires significant energy to recover from. Heart function, medications, disturbed sleep, and the psychological impact of trauma can all contribute to fatigue.
Fatigue often improves over time, but it can be frustrating to live with, particularly in the early months of recovery. Some practical strategies that can help include pacing yourself — doing activities in shorter bursts with rest periods rather than pushing through — prioritising sleep, being honest with people around you about your energy levels, and gradually building activity levels with guidance from your cardiac rehabilitation team or physiotherapist.
If fatigue is significantly affecting your daily life, discuss it with your GP or cardiac team. An assessment of your heart function, anaemia, thyroid, and sleep quality may identify treatable contributing factors.