What follow-up protocols should I implement for patients with chronic fatigue to monitor their progress and response to treatment?

Follow-up protocols for patients with chronic fatigue (including ME/CFS) should include:

• Regular review of symptoms and functional status to monitor changes in fatigue severity, cognitive difficulties, physical stamina, and any flare-ups or relapses. This helps assess the patient's progress and response to treatment over time ¹.
• Review and adaptation of self-management plans, including energy management strategies, to ensure they remain appropriate as symptoms fluctuate. This includes discussing cognitive, physical, emotional, and social activities, rest, sleep quality, and environmental factors ¹.
• Monitoring for and managing coexisting conditions such as anxiety, depression, thyroid disease, or other relevant comorbidities, with referrals as needed according to best practice ¹.
• Collaboration with multidisciplinary ME/CFS specialist teams when available, to provide comprehensive assessment and tailored management ¹.
• For patients undergoing cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), regular review of therapy goals, self-management strategies, and development of a therapy blueprint at the end of treatment ¹.
• Education and support to help patients recognize and manage flare-ups and relapses, including temporary adjustments in activity or treatment ¹.

These follow-up protocols aim to provide a flexible, patient-centred approach that acknowledges the fluctuating nature of chronic fatigue symptoms and supports long-term management ¹.