Feeling tired is usually just a sign that you haven't been getting enough shut-eye lately. However, if you are constantly exhausted despite going to bed early every night, there could be a deeper reason for your fatigue. Could any of these three health issues explain your exhaustion?

1. Sleep Apnoea

Sleep apnoea is a serious health issue that causes sufferers to momentarily stop breathing during their sleep. The lack of oxygen jars sufferers awake multiple times every night; although, many don't remember it in the morning. According to the Australian Sleep Association, as many as 2 to 4 percent of adults suffer from sleep apnoea. If your partner or family members have noticed you snoring -- a very common symptom of sleep apnoea -- then it's a good idea to get checked out by a sleep doctor. Sleep apnoea solutions could help you breathe easier at night and therefore get a better night's sleep.

2. Dietary Deficiencies

Excessive tiredness is a symptom of many nutritional deficiencies. For example, if your diet is lacking in vitamin B12, you could find yourself feeling very fatigued even though you get plenty of sleep every night. Vegans are particularly prone to this nutritional deficiency if they don't take supplements. Some medical conditions can also lead to vitamin deficiencies. The good news is that your doctor can quickly check your levels of B12 and other vitamins with a simple blood test, allowing you to know the cause of your tiredness. Your doctor can then prescribe supplements or other medical treatments to correct the deficiency and help you feel more like yourself again.

3. Depression

Sometimes, wanting to sleep all the time is a sign of depression. If you wake up every morning with an extreme lack of motivation or spend all day wishing you could retreat to the shelter of your bed, you could be depressed. People who are depressed often stop enjoying their daily activities, which can lead to a desire to sleep all the time. If you think your mental health might be the cause of your tiredness, see a doctor for advice. There are many treatments for depression, including medications and counselling, that could help you return to a more normal frame of mind.

If you consistently feel tired despite getting plenty of sleep, it's important to seek medical attention. Sleep apnea can be dangerous, while nutritional deficiencies and depression often get worse if left untreated. Book an appointment with a doctor today to find out what is making you feel so sleepy.