Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a form of debilitating disorder that's characterized by extreme tiredness or fatigue that cannot be rectified by simply taking a rest, or explained by an underlying condition. CFS is sometimes referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), which is a systematic exertion intolerance disease. There are no tests for chronic fatigue syndrome, so often the diagnosis is given after your doctor has simply ruled out other potential causes of your fatigue.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Causes
The causes of this condition aren't fully understood, and some theories range from viral infections to a combination of psychological stresses and other factors. Researchers believe that some viruses, and significantly lower-than-normal blood pressure might contribute to factors that relate to chronic fatigue syndrome. However, it's also possible that certain people might be more likely to suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome from a genetic perspective.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest that chronic fatigue syndrome might actually be the end-stage result of numerous conditions rather than a sign of a singular or unique condition.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome can be difficult to pinpoint because they vary from one person to the next and according to its severity. One of the most obvious and common symptoms is tiredness that simply affects the person’s daily activities. For someone to suffer from CFS, it's important to note that the fatigue that is felt must last for a period that is longer than six months, and cannot be remedied by taking a rest.
Some of the possible other symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are:
– Tender nodes in your armpits and neck
– Frequent problems with sore throats
– Joint pain without any swelling or redness
– Common headaches and muscle pain
– Insomnia and other problems with sleep
– An unrefreshed feeling even after a long night of sleep
– Loss of concentration or memory
Some people will experience chronic fatigue syndrome in cycles, where there are times when they feel better, and other times when they might feel worse. Symptoms may even disappear completely for long periods of time and then the symptoms suddenly return.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Treatment Options
Today there isn't a specific cure available that can help to get rid of chronic fatigue syndrome for good. Each person afflicted with this problem has different symptoms and therefore benefits from different types of treatment. Sometimes, making lifestyle changes can help to reduce the symptoms. For instance, limiting your caffeine intake could improve your quality of sleep and decrease incidences of insomnia. Additionally, you should make sure that you work on developing a high-quality sleep routine, which means that you go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning.
Another option for treatment might be to seek out therapy. There are two types of therapy that can help people with chronic fatigue syndrome. The first type is psychological counseling that improves your overall well-being and mindset. The other type of therapy is physical therapy that uses exercise, which gradually becomes more difficult and intense.