Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Definition
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that may worsen with physical or mental activity, but doesn’t improve with rest. Although there are many theories about what causes this condition — ranging from viral infections to psychological stress — in most cases the cause is still unknown.
Because its symptoms are difficult to measure, CFS wasn’t widely accepted as a real medical condition for several years. Today, however, doctors and researchers agree that this chronic condition should be taken seriously.
Although an underlying cause often isn’t found, effective treatments for the signs and symptoms of CFS are available. Many people recover from chronic fatigue syndrome over time.
Symptoms
People with chronic fatigue syndrome may experience a variety of signs and symptoms that come and go frequently with no identifiable pattern.
Primary signs and symptoms
Chronic fatigue syndrome has eight official symptoms, plus the central symptom that gives the condition its name:
- Fatigue
- Loss of memory or concentration
- Sore throat
- Painful and mildly enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or armpits
- Unexplained muscle pain
- Pain that moves from one joint to another without swelling or redness
- Headache of a new type, pattern or severity
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Extreme exhaustion lasting more than 24 hours after physical or mental exercise
Additional signs and symptoms
In addition, people with chronic fatigue syndrome have reported other various signs and symptoms that aren’t part of the official definition. These include:
- Abdominal pain
- Allergies or sensitivities to foods, alcohol, odors, chemicals, medications or noise
- Bloating
- Chest pain
- Chronic cough
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness, balance problems or fainting
- Dry mouth
- Earache
- Irregular heartbeat
- Jaw pain
- Morning stiffness
- Nausea
- Chills and night sweats
- Psychological problems, such as depression, irritability, anxiety disorders and panic attacks
- Shortness of breath
- Tingling sensations
- Visual disturbances, such as blurring, sensitivity to light, eye pain and dry eyes
- Weight loss or gain
If you have chronic fatigue syndrome, your symptoms may peak and become stable early on, and then come and go over time. Some people go on to recover completely, while others grow progressively worse.
When to see a doctor
Fatigue can be a symptom of many illnesses, such as infections or psychological disorders. In general, see your doctor if you have persistent or excessive fatigue.
The earlier a person with CFS receives medical treatment the greater the likelihood that the illness will resolve. In addition, severe fatigue that prevents you from fully participating in activities at home, work or school may be a symptom of an underlying medical problem.
