Always Tired? What is Chronic Fatigue and What Can Help?
It’s that feeling of not physically being able to get out of bed. The sensation that you yawn more than you smile. The anxiety when you realize you cannot even conceive of completing even the most mundane chores such as stopping by the post office or making your bed because you are just so overwhelmingly, distractedly exhausted. If feelings of chronic fatigue last for several weeks or months and you don’t believe that a temporary period of overwork or an over complicated schedule is to blame, you may be suffering from a condition called chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also referred to as systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID) or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), sometimes abbreviated as ME/CFS.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
ME/CFS is a disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by an underlying medical condition, and that sometimes becomes more severe with mental or physical activity. While accurate estimates are difficult to obtain due to the variety of underlying conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those of ME/CFS, scientists estimate that there may be as many as 17 to 24 million people living with ME/CFS around the world.
What are the Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
CFS symptoms may include:
- Persistent, overwhelming fatigue.
- Extreme exhaustion that lasts more than 24 hours after physical or mental strain.
- Waking from sleep without feeling satisfied or refreshed.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Memory loss.
- Headaches.
- Muscle or joint pain.
- A sore throat.
- Enlarged lymph nodes in your armpits or neck.
What Causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
While doctors do not fully understand the cause of this disruptive disorder, some believe it may be caused by a viral infection, while others cite the root cause as psychological stress or other combining factors. Still, others have hypothesized that the cause may be genetic, believing that some individuals are innately hypersensitive to normal amounts of activity and exercise. They believe these individuals may have been born with a predisposition to CFS and then a single impactful episode triggers the onset of symptoms. Such impactful factors may include:
- A viral infection
- Immune system complications
- Hormonal imbalances
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Diagnosis
Your doctor may need to conduct several tests and exams to provide a definitive diagnosis of CFS while ruling out other underlying medical conditions of which generalized and persistent malaise may be a symptom.
What Treatment Options are Available for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
While there is no cure or vaccine to guard against CFS, your doctor will work with you to establish a treatment plan that focuses on symptom mitigation. Such treatment options may include:
- Medications. This treatment option is most applicable to those living with CFS and depression. By treating depression, patients may be better capable of managing their CFS symptoms.
- Cognitive Therapy. Patients with CFS report that regularly speaking with a counselor helps them to cope with the limitations of their condition and learn to take back control by overcoming debilitating symptoms, especially when combined with a low-impact exercise program.
- Graded Exercise. Mild forms of exercise can help mitigate feelings of exhaustion in CFS patients. Be sure to work with a physical therapist who can design a training program and monitor your progress.
How to Get Help
Talk to your doctor if you believe you may be suffering from CFS. If you do not have CFS, another medical condition or illness may be leaving you feeling drained, and your doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and work with you to create a treatment plan to help you manage your symptoms and become re-engaged in your daily activities.
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