Chronic Fatigue: A Symptom That Deserves a Workup
Persistent fatigue beyond 6 weeks needs evaluation.
Dr. Marc Aubry
Internist
Full blood count, ferritin, thyroid function, glucose, liver and kidney function, calcium, vitamin D and B12. Coeliac serology when appropriate.
Common reversible causes
Iron deficiency, hypothyroidism, sleep apnoea, depression, medication side effects, alcohol excess, untreated chronic disease.
When to think ME/CFS
Severe fatigue >6 months, post-exertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, cognitive difficulties — diagnosis of exclusion.
Self-care
Regular sleep schedule, balanced meals, gradual physical activity, limit alcohol and screen-time before bed.
Fatigue that does not improve with rest deserves medical review rather than another supplement.
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