What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
CFS (also known as Myalgic encephalomyelitis) is a disease characterized by profound fatigue, sleep abnormalities, pain, and other symptoms that are made worse by exertion. More than 200,000 US cases per year. Treatment can help, but this condition can’t be cured. This is a chronic syndrome that can last for years or be lifelong and requires a medical diagnosis. The diagnosis comes from lab tests and/or imaging. Chronic fatigue syndrome occurs more commonly in women. The cause of this condition is unknown, but may include environmental or genetic factors. Fatigue often worsens with activity, but doesn’t improve with rest. There is no cure or approved treatment for this condition. Fatigue can often be a symptom shared in other conditions such as fibromyalgia. However, some symptoms can be treated or managed to provide relief. Consult a doctor for medical advice.
Symptoms
- Cognitive: confusion, forgetfulness, or lack of concentration
- Depression
- Headache
- Inability to exercise
- Malaise
- Mood: anxiety or apprehension
- Muscle weakness
- Pain areas: in the joints or muscles
- Sensitivity to pain
- Sleep: excess sleepiness or sleep disturbances
- Sore throat
- The fatigue often worsens with activity, but doesn’t improve with rest
- The main symptom is fatigue for over six months
- Whole body: fatigue
Treatment
- Antidepressant – Prevents or relieves depression and elevates mood
- Clinical psychologist – Treats mental disorders primarily with talk therapy
- Primary care provider (PCP) – Prevents, diagnoses, and treats diseases
- Psychiatrist – Treats mental disorders primarily with medications
- Pursuing an enjoyable activity or verbalizing frustration to reduce stress and improve mental health
- Relaxation techniques – Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, rhythmic exercise, and other activities that reduce symptoms of stress
- Stress management
- Support groups – A forum for counseling and sharing experiences among people with a similar condition or goal, such as depression or weight loss
- There is no cure or approved treatment for this condition. However, some symptoms can be treated or managed to provide relief
- Venlafaxine – It can treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder
