Oct. 14, 2021 | It’s a complex and devastating disorder that affects more than a million Americans. That’s more than the number of people that have multiple sclerosis, lupus and many forms of cancer. Chronic fatigue syndrome or CFS causes extreme fatigue that may worsen with physical or mental activity and cannot be relieved by bed rest. Its symptoms can be mild or severe. While both men and women of all ages can develop CFS, it occurs four times more frequently in women than men. It’s seen in patients of all ages although it commonly affects people in their 40s and 50s. People with CFS experience a range of symptoms that makes it hard to do the daily tasks that most of us do, like dressing or bathing. They often function at a substantially lower level of activity than they were capable of before they became ill. Unfortunately, chronic fatigue syndrome can be misdiagnosed or overlooked because its symptoms are similar to so many other illnesses.

Oct. 14, 2021 | Despite extensive research, no known cause has been found for chronic fatigue syndrome. It may be a combination of factors that affect people who were born with a predisposition for the disorder. Because some people develop CFS after having a viral infection, researchers question whether some viruses might trigger the disorder. Such infections may include the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes mononucleosis, and human herpes virus 6. Some people with CFS report that it started after a time of great physical stress, such as following surgery. The immune systems of people who have chronic fatigue syndrome appear to be impaired slightly, but it’s unclear if this impairment is enough to actually cause the disorder. People who have CFS also sometimes experience abnormal blood levels of hormones produced in the hypothalamus, pituitary glands or adrenal glands. But the significance of these abnormalities is still unknown.

Oct. 14, 2021 | Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a disorder that causes extreme fatigue. Its symptoms are similar to those of the flu, including muscle aches, headache and joint pain. The main symptom, however, is a feeling of extreme tiredness that lasts at least six months and cannot be relieved by bed rest. People with CFS may have problems sleeping and difficulties with memory and concentration. They may also experience persistent muscle pain and a sore throat. While those are the most notable symptoms, some CFS patients have problems with balance along with sensitivities to certain foods or odors. Some patients have reported experiencing chills and night sweats as well as a feeling of being in a mental fog. They may also be subject to depression or mood problems like irritability, anxiety and panic attacks. Many of the symptoms may be invisible to others, making it difficult for family and friends to understand the challenges someone with CFS faces.

Oct. 14, 2021 | Because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome can resemble the symptoms of so many other illnesses or the side effects of medications, a thorough physical exam and a series of lab tests will be necessary to obtain a successful diagnosis. A detailed medical history will be needed and should include a review of medications that could be causing the fatigue and symptoms. It’s important not to self-diagnose CFS. It’s not uncommon for people to mistakenly assume they have chronic fatigue syndrome when they have another illness that will respond to treatment. If you have CFS symptoms, consult a health care professional to determine if any other conditions are responsible for your symptoms. A CFS diagnosis can be made only after other conditions have been excluded. It’s also important not to delay seeking a diagnosis and medical care. Research has shown that early diagnosis and treatment of CFS can increase the likelihood of improvement.

Oct. 14, 2021 | There is no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome at this time so treatment will focus on managing the disorder’s symptoms. Many people who have chronic fatigue syndrome are also depressed. Treating the depression can make it easier for the patient to cope with the problems associated with CFS. Low doses of some antidepressants also can help improve sleep and relieve pain. Many alternative therapies have been promoted for CFS. It’s difficult to determine whether these therapies actually work because the symptoms are often linked to mood and can vary from day to day. Keep in mind that many alternative treatments and herbal remedies claim to cure CFS but some might do more harm than good. For many people, the symptoms are more bothersome early in the course of the illness and then gradually decrease. Emotional support and counseling may help patients deal with the uncertainties and restrictions of chronic fatigue syndrome.