Chronic fatigue syndromes: real illnesses that people can recover from

The 'Oslo Chronic Fatigue Consortium' consists of researchers and clinicians who question the current narrative that chronic fatigue syndromes, including post-covid conditions, are incurable diseases. Instead, we propose an alternative view, based on research, which offers more hope to patients. Whilst we regard the symptoms of these conditions as real, we propose that they are more likely to reflect the brain's response to a range of biological, psychological, and social factors, rather than a specific disease process. Possible causes include persistent activation of the neurobiological stress response, accompanied by associated changes in immunological, hormonal, cognitive and behavioural domains. We further propose that the symptoms are more likely to persist if they are perceived as threatening, and all activities that are perceived to worsen them are avoided. We also question the idea that the best way to cope with the illness is by prolonged rest, social isolation, and sensory deprivation.Instead, we propose that recovery is often possible if patients are helped to adopt a less threatening understanding of their symptoms and are supported in a gradual return to normal activities. Finally, we call for a much more open and constructive dialogue about these conditions. This dialogue should include a wider range of views, including those of patients who have recovered from them.

[A record of procedures--its use and usefulness. Evaluation of a tool for general practitioners in Telemark]

A loose-leaf book of procedures has been published earlier. The aim of this evaluation was to study the use of this book in the county of Telemark, and the possible effect of the book on the quality of the letters notifying admission to hospital. A questionnaire has been sent twice to all general practitioners in Telemark. In addition, the medical directors of two hospital departments have evaluated the quality of the letters of admission before and after the distribution of the book. The results are interesting, and show that the book is widely used in the county of Telemark.

[The loose-leaf book of procedures. A regional model for diagnostic and referral routines--a basis for improved cooperation between primary and secondary services]

Initiated by the Telemark branch of the Norwegian Medical Association a loose-leaf book of procedures has been prepared for use in the region of Telemark Central Hospital. The professional advice given in the book is based on an agreement between the chief physicians of the various hospital units, their discussions in the unit, and a group of four general physicians. The advice is only intended as a guide. The editors' idea is to have the book distributed to all G.P.s and hospital units in Telemark. The book is meant to be updated once a year.

[Reflectometric measurement of blood glucose in general practice]

Blood glucosestix and reflectometers are widely used in measurement of blood glucose in general practice. This study has investigated the accuracy and precision of this method at nine general practitioners' offices. The results show a strong trend towards less accurate and exact values with declining values of blood glucose. The authors ask for routines for quality control of these methods in general practice. Today this method, when used in general practice, is neither accurate nor precise enough to make the diagnose diabetes mellitus, unless the diagnose is obvious, with very high values of blood glucose and classical symptoms.