GENERAL MALAISE

Sub types

• Post Viral: Many individuals are affected post virus - especially following flu and glandular fever, they get a low energy state, often lasting weeks or months. If severe, or depression Contact GP.
• "ME" Myalgic encephalomyelitis: There is much disagreement between doctors as to whether this is an organic or psychological low energy state. Probably there is a spectrum. Encourage exercise. See diet is adequate.Contact GP if major mood change or problems with coping.

Danger signs

• Contact GP if marked weight loss, persistent symptoms.
• Endocrine disease diabetes: (thirst/ polyuria weight loss) Hypothyroidism (slow, lethargic, dry skin).
• Cardiovascular disease: Chest pain, or shortness of breath on exertion can make even minimal exercise debilitating.
• Major psychiatric disease: Especially depression. If any of the above suspected - Refer.

Notes for children

• Contact GP. Rare for children to have anything other than high energy levels. Suggest parent takes accurate measures of height and weight.

Notes for the elderly

• Higher chance of elderly person having underlying organic disease. Depressed elderly may present with "pseudo-dementia", ie. apparently demented - but actually depressed.

Therapy

• Tonics/ Vitamin preparations.
• Stimulants.

Dictionary

Dementia: a general mental deterioration due to organic or psychological factors.
Encephalomyelitis: an acute inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.
Hypothyroidism: diminished production of thyroid hormone, leading to thyroid deficiency.

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