Why Am I Waking Up Tired Every Day? The Blood Tests Londoners Should Consider
Reviewed by Dr Lauren Holland • Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Results in 24 – 42 hours. Westminster residents receive 20% off.
Persistent tiredness is one of the most common symptoms among adults living and working in London. Long commutes, stress, screen time and late working hours all play a role. But many patients who come to Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC) discover that the root cause is not lifestyle alone. Subtle medical issues can cause morning fatigue even when sleep duration is normal.
This article explains the most common medical causes, the symptoms to look for and which blood tests can help identify the problem early.
Common Medical Causes of Waking Up Tired
Several undiagnosed health issues can cause fatigue on waking. The most common include:
Vitamin D Deficiency
Very common in London, especially in autumn and winter.
Symptoms: low energy, muscle aches, low mood, poor immunity.
Relevant MDC test: Vitamin D blood test.
Iron or Ferritin Deficiency
Low iron reduces oxygen delivery to the body.
Symptoms: tiredness, dizziness, cold hands and feet, hair thinning.
Relevant MDC test: Iron Profile + Ferritin.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
More common in vegans, vegetarians, IBS, gastritis, and high-stress lifestyles.
Symptoms: fatigue, tingling hands/feet, brain fog, headaches.
Relevant MDC test: B12 + Folate.
Thyroid Imbalance
Thyroid hormones regulate energy and metabolism.
Symptoms: waking tired, weight changes, cold intolerance, low motivation.
Relevant MDC test: Full Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Antibodies).
Blood Sugar Instability (Prediabetes)
A frequent cause in busy professionals.
Symptoms: morning tiredness, energy crashes, hunger on waking, headaches.
Relevant MDC test: HbA1c + Glucose.
Poor Sleep Quality Linked to Magnesium Imbalance
Magnesium supports sleep regulation, muscle relaxation and stress response.
Symptoms: restless sleep, muscle tension, anxiety, morning heaviness.
Relevant MDC test: Magnesium blood test or Hair Mineral Analysis.
Chronic Inflammation
Low-grade inflammation disrupts sleep and drains energy.
Symptoms: fatigue, body aches, low mood.
Relevant MDC test: CRP, ESR, Full Blood Count.
Hidden Infection or Immune Stress
Viral or bacterial infections may cause prolonged fatigue.
Symptoms: night sweats, headaches, swollen glands, weakness.
Relevant MDC test: Full Blood Count + CRP.
When Should You Consider Testing?
Testing is recommended if you experience any of the following:
- Tiredness lasting more than two weeks
- Waking up unrefreshed
- Afternoon energy crashes
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hair thinning or nails breaking
- Low mood or irritability
- Cold hands and feet
- Unexplained weight changes
- Poor exercise recovery
Many patients who believed they were “burnt out” actually had correctable deficiencies.
The Best MDC Profiles for Fatigue
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre offers targeted fatigue investigations:
Fatigue & Energy Profile
- Iron profile
- Ferritin
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12 + Folate
- Full Blood Count
- Thyroid Profile
Advanced Wellness Profile
All markers above plus:
- Magnesium
- Zinc
- CRP
- HbA1c
- Kidney and liver screens
Hair Mineral Analysis
- Shows long-term magnesium, zinc and mineral balance.
- Helpful for sleep issues, stress and chronic fatigue.
Why Choose MDC for Fatigue Testing
- Fast results within 24 – 42 hours
- Clear result explanation
- Full clinical review available
- Private and discreet appointments
- QC-validated laboratory accuracy
- Open Monday to Saturday
- 5-minute walk from Baker Street Station
Westminster residents receive 20% off
Book Your Fatigue Blood Tests
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Tel: +44 7495 970109
Open Monday to Saturday, 08:00–16:00
Quick Links
- Vitamin D Blood Test
- Vitamin B12 Test
- Iron and Ferritin Profile
- Thyroid Profiles
- Full Blood Count
- HbA1c Test
- Fatigue and Energy Profile
- Advanced Wellness Profile
- Hair Mineral Analysis
