A common-sense approach to chronic fatigue in primary care

Abstract

Since chronic fatigue is so common, long-lasting, and fraught with functional and emotional consequences, early intervention can limit overuse of health care resources and forestall disability. To help patients, we must intervene before chronicity is established or iatrogenic harm has occurred. Care that integrates medical and psychologic concepts, together with symptom management, can prevent significant secondary impairment in most cases.