FATIGUE

Any task that requires vigilance is susceptible to the effects of fatigue. Fatigue can be characterized as:

• Short Term Fatigue (Acute). Acute fatigue is caused after any task that requires physical or mental strain. It is the tiredness felt by the individual that reduces his/her performance. To recover, the individual needs proper sleep combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Long Term Fatigue (Chronic). Chronic fatigue can be caused when the individual does not recover from the acute fatigue before it appears again. It may also be caused by long term stress encountered by the individual. This type of fatigue is harder to detect. The recovery process depends on its cause. When it is caused by acute fatigue that was not managed well enough for a long time, the recovery includes proper sleep combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Is easily cured by one good night of sleep. → INCORRECT. This describes acute fatigue, not chronic fatigue. Chronic fatigue persists despite rest.

Is usually caused by a single high-workload flight. → INCORRECT. This relates to acute fatigue, which results from short-term exertion. Chronic fatigue develops over time.

It occurs over a very long period and requires a prolonged recovery period. → CORRECT. Chronic fatigue develops gradually due to prolonged stress or insufficient rest and cannot be resolved quickly. Recovery typically takes an extended period.

It is characterized by a sudden increase in physical energy. → INCORRECT. This is the opposite of fatigue. Chronic fatigue involves persistent tiredness, reduced performance, and low energy levels.