What are the main symptoms for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that can’t be explained by any underlying medical condition. The fatigue may worsen with physical or mental activity, but doesn’t improve with rest.
CFS can also cause a number of other symptoms, including:
– Sleep problems
– Memory and concentration issues
– Headaches
– Muscle pain
– Joint pain without swelling or redness
– Tender lymph nodes in your neck or armpits
– Sore throat
– Chronic multi-symptom illness (CMI)
If you have CFS, you’ll likely experience a wide range of symptoms that can make everyday activities a challenge. The symptoms can vary in severity, and they may come and go. Some people with CFS only have mild symptoms, while others are so debilitated that they’re unable to carry out normal activities. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing the condition. Treatment focuses on symptom relief.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition that causes you to feel exhausted and unable to do normal daily activities. It often develops after a viral infection, such as a cold or the flu. But it can also occur without an apparent trigger.
There’s no single test to diagnose CFS. Your doctor will likely conduct a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and medical history. He or she may also order blood tests to look for possible triggers of your fatigue, such as anemia or thyroid problems.
There’s no specific cure for CFS, but treatments can help lessen your symptoms. These may include exercise, stress reduction and counseling.
Diagnosis
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a difficult disorder to diagnose because there’s no specific test for it. To be diagnosed with CFS, you must meet certain criteria, such as:
– Having severe fatigue for at least six months that isn’t caused by any underlying medical condition
– Having other common symptoms, such as memory or concentration problems, sleep disturbances, muscle pain, and headaches
– Having these symptoms significantly interfere with work, school, or other important activities
A doctor may also rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as sleep disorders, viral infections, and mental health conditions. There is no single blood test or imaging scan that can diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome.
If you think you may have CFS, talk to your doctor. They can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is unknown. It’s not caused by any single virus or infection. A combination of factors may play a role, including genetic predisposition, viral infections and psychological stress.
It’s also not clear why some people develop CFS after an infectious illness while others don’t. Researchers are exploring several theories, such as whether certain viral infections can trigger the condition or if an overactive immune response to an infection plays a role.
Chronic fatigue syndrome occurs more often in women than men and usually begins in adulthood. However, it can affect children and teens as well. People with CFS often have other conditions, such as fibromyalgia, depression and anxiety disorders.
