Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED because of fatigue. This means feeling tired or having a lack of energy.
Many things can cause fatigue. Some are serious things like heart disease or thyroid problems. Less serious things like stress, problems with diet, or poor sleep can also cause fatigue.
The doctors think your fatigue is likely not caused by something serious. But they might not be able to figure out what is causing your fatigue the first time they see you. So it is important that you follow up with your regular doctor.
You might be waiting on test results. The staff will notify you if there are concerning results.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment.
●Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
●Try to move your body every day. Even mild exercise, like walking, is good for your health. Try to spend some time outside every day.
●Try to keep a regular sleep schedule. Try to get 8 hours of sleep every night.
●Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grain, and low-fat dairy products. Avoid fatty foods and sugary drinks. Drink plenty of water.
●If you feel worried or anxious, try to find ways to cope with stress. Meditation, deep breathing, and muscle relaxation can help. Things like yoga, exercise, and tai chi can also help.
When should I get emergency help?
●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if you have:
•Severe trouble breathing
•Severe pain in your chest or belly
•Severe difficulty speaking or moving, especially on 1 side of your body
●Return to the ED if you:
•Get dizzy or weak when standing up from a lying or sitting position, and this feeling does not go away
•Are so weak you cannot get out of bed
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if you:
●Have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
●Have constipation, vomiting, or blood in your bowel movements
●Have problems eating or sleeping
●Are functioning poorly at work, at home, or in school
●Have new or worsening symptoms
Patient education: Good sleep hygiene (The Basics)
Patient education: Exercise and movement (The Basics)
Patient education: Diet and health (The Basics)
Patient education: Exercise (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Diet and health (Beyond the Basics)
