Praxis
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Fatigue - a Common Symptom in General Practice Abstract. When patients suffering from fatigue consult a GP surgery, GPs should understand what patients mean by fatigue, how strongly they are affected in everyday life and how they themselves explain the symptom. In a next step, dangerous diseases such as depression, addiction or sleep apnea syndrome must be excluded. ⋯ A simple physical exam and a few lab examinations are sufficient to capture the major disorders that present with the isolated symptom of fatigue. For further care, a primary biopsychosocial approach with a viable physician-patient relationship is crucial. Rough conclusions based on laboratory findings should be avoided; comorbidities must be considered.