Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Definition

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition that causes long-term, extreme tiredness. The tiredness does not get better with bed rest. This can lead to problems doing daily activities.

Causes

The cause of CFS is not known. It may be linked to an infection or problems with the immune, endocrine, or nervous systems.

Risk Factors

CFS is more common in women than men. It tends to be seen in adults ages 30 to 40 years old. However, CFS can happen at any age. Other things that raise the risk are:

• Recent infection from a virus, fungus, or bacteria
• Exposure to a toxin
• Recent vaccination
• Trauma—physical or emotional
• Family history of CFS
• An immune system problem
• Long term stress
• Allergies or sensitivities to foods, chemicals, odors, medicines, light, or noise

Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. They may be:

• New and lasting tiredness that:
  • Does not get better with bed rest
  • Often gets worse with physical or mental activity
  • Cannot be explained by another health condition
• Unexplained pain for more than 6 months, such as:
  • Muscle aches and headaches
  • Joint pain
  • Sore throat
  • Tender lymph nodes
• Confusion, memory problems, and not being able to focus
• Irritability, anxiety, panic attacks, mood swings, or depression
• Problems sleeping
• Vision problems
• Lightheadedness, balance problems, or fainting
• Chills and night sweats

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and health history. A physical exam may be done. There are no specific tests to diagnose CFS.

To diagnose CFS, the doctor must rule out other health conditions first. This may take a long time.

Treatment

There is no cure for CFS. The goal is to manage symptoms and improve wellbeing. Treatment options are:

• Moderate physical activity—monitored by a doctor or physical therapist
• Therapies such as:
  • Massage
  • Stretching
  • Tai chi
  • Yoga
• A well-balanced diet
• Counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and stress management techniques
• Medicines, such as:
  • Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines
  • Pain medicines, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen
  • Stimulants—to help mental function
  • Sedatives—to help with insomnia

Prevention

There is no way to prevent CFS.