CCFP 105 Topics: Fatigue

This co-hosted podcast episode focuses on diagnosing and managing patient fatigue in family medicine. The hosts discuss definitions of acute and chronic fatigue, outlining a systematic approach involving a thorough history, physical exam, and review of systems to rule out underlying medical causes, including depression and medication side effects. They emphasize the importance of considering psychosocial factors and avoiding unnecessary investigations, suggesting routine labs only if symptoms persist. The episode concludes by addressing chronic fatigue syndrome, its diagnostic criteria, and supportive management strategies, highlighting the need for a therapeutic relationship with patients and appropriate referrals when necessary. For example, the hosts recommend using the PHQ-2 and PHQ-9 questionnaires to assess for depression.