Could you or a loved one be suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Signs of chronic fatigue to watch out for
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating disorder characterised by extreme fatigue or tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest, and can’t be explained by an underlying medical condition. CFS can also be referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID).
The causes of CFS aren’t well-understood. Some theories include viral infection, psychological stress, or a combination of factors. Because no single cause has been identified, and because many other illnesses produce similar symptoms, CFS can be difficult to diagnose. There are no tests for CFS, so your doctor will have to rule out other causes for your fatigue.
Scientists are starting to understand the biological causes of ME/CFS, although they have not yet found a prevention or cure. Genes appear to be a factor in many cases.
Over 4,000 research articles have found that ME/CFS is associated with problems involving:
the body’s ability to produce and transport energy
the immune, neurological and hormonal systems
viral or other infections
blood pressure, the circulatory and cardiac systems
digestion
biochemical abnormalities.
Risk factors for CFS
CFS is most common among people in their 40s and 50s. Gender also plays an important role in CFS, as female patients outnumber males by a nearly 2 to 1 ratio. Genetic predisposition, allergies, stress, and environmental factors may also increase your risk.
What are the symptoms of CFS?
The symptoms of CFS vary from person to person and based on the severity of the condition. The most common symptom is fatigue that is severe enough to interfere with your daily activities. For CFS to be diagnosed, fatigue must last for at least six months and must not be curable with bed rest, and you must have at least four other symptoms as well.
Other symptoms of CFS may include:
loss of memory or concentration
feeling unrefreshed after a night’s sleep
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