From the doctor's desk

Fatigue and stress: what can an assessment tell you?

Brain haemodynamic measurements, heart rate variability and questionnaires are considered alongside a consultation, not as a diagnosis on their own.

If you feel tired or mentally foggy despite sleep and a routine health check has not identified a major problem, it is important to review your symptoms and daily life in more detail. Our clinic considers selected tests alongside history-taking and examination.

Three sources of information

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) examines blood-flow-related changes over the prefrontal area during simple tasks. Heart rate variability (HRV) examines variation in the intervals between heartbeats. Standardized questionnaires also help review low mood and anxiety.

What happens during the test?

You sit wearing the device and follow on-screen instructions for simple tasks. The original article describes a test time of approximately six minutes, without needles or injections. Repeat measurements may be used to compare results over time when appropriate.

Measurements do not replace a diagnosis

Results provide supporting information about your current state. They do not independently establish a particular disease or autonomic disorder. We interpret them alongside your symptoms, sleep, lifestyle history and examination.

Persistent symptoms may need further care

Tell the doctor about ongoing fatigue, concentration difficulties or problems falling asleep. The original article also advises considering mental health specialist care when low mood lasts two weeks or more, or symptoms significantly interfere with daily life.

Adapted from the clinic director's Korean blog article. Tests support clinical assessment and do not replace individual care or specialist evaluation when needed.

Read the original blog post (Korean)All insights