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33 yo F is evaluated for a 16 month hx of chronic fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, difficulty concentrating, and post-exertional malaise. She has also taken sick days from work with increasing frequency in recent months. Her PHQ 9 score is 6, consistent with mild depression.Most appropriate management?

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6 votes

Final answer:

The most appropriate management for the 33-year-old female with chronic fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, difficulty concentrating, and post-exertional malaise would be to consider the possibility of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Treatment for CFS/ME focuses on symptom management, which may include a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), graded exercise therapy (GET), and medications to address specific symptoms. It is important for the patient to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop an individualized management plan based on their specific symptoms and needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate management for the 33-year-old female with chronic fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, difficulty concentrating, and post-exertional malaise would be to consider the possibility of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). These conditions are characterized by persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is accompanied by other symptoms like sleep disturbances and cognitive impairments. To diagnose CFS/ME and to rule out other potential causes, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Treatment for CFS/ME focuses on symptom management, which may include a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), graded exercise therapy (GET), and medications to address specific symptoms. It is important for the patient to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop an individualized management plan based on their specific symptoms and needs.

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