$Unique_ID{BRK00371}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases}
$Title{Complaint of Fatigue}
$Subject{fatigue stress depression}
$Volume{N}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Complaint of Fatigue


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QUESTION:  I know it must be a common complaint, but I am always tired.  I am
not sure what type of doctor to see, or what he could do, so thought I would
ask you first.  My letter is a long one, but perhaps you can offer some
advice.

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ANSWER:  Physicians do hear the complaint of fatigue very, very frequently as
it ranks as number 7 in the list of physical complaints.  And while your
"book" does give much information, you have the cart before the horse.  It is
most necessary to see your physician (a Family Physician, of course!), but can
be best prepared for your visit if you do a bit of home work first.  Try
asking yourself a few question, because their answers will be revealing and
will help your physician home in on the possible causes of your problem.  Are
you really getting enough sleep?  When the body does not have the rest it
needs, fatigue is the result, and it is easy to overlook this most important
clue.  Reflect on your patterns of sleep, or difficulty in falling to sleep
and be prepared to discuss this with your physician.  Are you taking any
medications, including over the counter preparations?  Make a list of all of
them, as they me be the cause of an abnormal fatigue.  Have you given up
smoking?  If not, your body is not able to use your oxygen intake properly,
and you lose a bit of your vitality.  How is your emotional life?  If there
are reasons for felling blue, a lost job, a broken relationship, then
emotional stress, possibly depression can be at the root cause of a fatigue
problem.  Have you abandoned your plans for a rational exercise program?  If
your job is one that requires you to remain planted at a desk, then the need
for some planned exercise is a priority consideration.  There are many more
items we could discuss here, but I am hoping you will have a full physical
examination and an intensive history taking session with you own physician
which will uncover medical problems such as diabetes, endocrine disorders and
hidden infections which can also bring about the symptoms you describe.  Once
the cause is established, there is much that can be accomplished in
cooperation with your physician to alleviate your present condition.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
