Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
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What isCFSChronic FatigueMESyndrome?
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a chronic and complex disease that causes severe fatigue and other symptoms not explained by any medical condition. It may include chronic, deep, debilitating, unexplained fatigue with concurrent symptoms such as sleep problems or post-exertional malaise. If you are affected, you are likely to feel extremely tired, often, even if you are not active. You may also have a range of other symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
- The symptoms worsen after physical activity or mental exertion and do not improve after sleep or rest. Other common symptoms of this disease include:
- Problems with thinking, memory loss, or difficulty concentrating.
- Sleep difficulties, including unrefreshing sleep (not feeling energized after sleeping).
- Headaches, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
- Muscle and joint pain, and sore throat.
- Digestive changes such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.
Sensitivity to light, noise, food, medications, or chemicals.
Each person is different, so you might experience only mild symptoms, or you could have more severe symptoms.
What causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
- Doctors do not fully understand the cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but the factors may include:
- Infection (a common trigger), such as viral infections like glandular fever, bacterial infections like pneumonia.
- Environmental toxins.
- Physical trauma, such as surgery.
- Family genetics.
- Physical or emotional stress.
- Immune system problems.
Hormonal imbalances.
How is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome diagnosed?
There is no single test to diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them, and your medical history, and may conduct some tests to rule out other potential causes.
What are the treatments for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
- There is no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but there are many things that your doctor might suggest to help you alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life, such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
- Energy management – where you are advised on how to optimize the use of the energy you have without worsening symptoms.
Medication to control symptoms like pain and sleep problems.
Some people with the disease may improve over time, especially with treatment. Many affected individuals will need to adjust their daily routine and activity patterns in the long term. There may be periods when symptoms improve or worsen.
What are the prevention methods for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
There are no scientifically proven methods to prevent the disease.
What are the complications of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
- Potential complications of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include lifestyle-related complications, such as:
- Restrictions in lifestyle.
- Increased absenteeism from work.
- Social isolation.
Depression.
When should you see a doctor?
If you experience the aforementioned symptoms, you should see a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
I always feel extremely sluggish. Does this mean I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
