Fatigue can be complex. By definition, it is a symptom and, therefore, can be just one piece of a larger puzzle. It is also a subjective marker, meaning that it is something that we “feel” rather than something that can be diagnosed based on a lab value. In certain cases, it is part of a complex underlying issue such as a underlying infection or various hormone imbalances. Yet, in other cases, there are more direct and measurable reasons to explain your fatigue.
This is why Sprout Wellness practitioners offer something called a “Fatigue Panel” which is a specific set of lab tests designed to offer insight into why energy may be suboptimal. This lab panel helps to at least rule out common and, in some cases, simple explanations for fatigue.
The Fatigue Panel assesses for imbalances in thyroid function, iron status, B12 and folate levels as well as immune function (as a part of the Complete Blood Count work-up; also known as a CBC). Additionally, it tests for a specific viral cause of fatigue known as the Epstein Barr virus, which can cause severe and sudden fatigue.
Speak with your Naturopathic Doctor if you feel that you would benefit from the fatigue panel or other lab evaluation.
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