$Unique_ID{BRK00371} $Pretitle{} $Title{Complaint of Fatigue} $Subject{fatigue stress depression Ill Defined Symptoms symptom lifestyle lifestyles enough sleep patterns difficulty falling asleep medications over-the-counter medication preparations smoke smoker smoking oxygen intake vitality emotional stress depression exercise medical problems diabetes mellitus endocrine disorders hidden infections infection} $Volume{N-23} $Log{} Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. Complaint of Fatigue ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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 homework first. Try asking yourself a few questions, 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 may 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 feeling 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. ---------------- 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.