Persistent fatigue can be a distressing feature of chronic illness. It also may not get the respect that it deserves.
Patient selection: fatigue (weak, tired, lacking in energy, exhaustion)
Features of persistent fatigue:
(1) presence of fatigue
(2) chronic and ongoing
(3) disproportionate to exertion (and cannot be fully explained by exertion)
(4) not alleviated by rest
Persistent fatigue is usually not considered bothersome until it is moderate or severe.
Fatigue may be ascribed to an underlying illness or medication. It also may be idiopathic.
The severity may be stable, progressive or fluctuating. Fluctuation may be associated with changes in an underlying illness, depression or overall quality of life.
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