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A beginners guide to understanding chronic fatigue syndrome

A beginners guide to understanding chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is quite complex. It causes extreme tiredness that can leave you constantly tired and irritable. CFS is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID). But, the worst part is not just that its symptoms can be confused for multiple other diseases, it’s actually the fact that until today, no one has been able to figure out what exactly causes CFS. So, here’s what you need to know about this syndrome to stay on top of it.

What are the possible causes of CFS?

The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is actually unknown but there are a few factors that contribute to it:

  • A recent viral infection that has left behind a weakened immune system
  • Lots of stress
  • Hormonal imbalances in the body

The CDC, in fact, suggested that chronic fatigue could possibly be the final stage of various conditions.

What are the symptoms of CFS?

One of the most obvious symptoms of CFS is being so tired or exhausted that it begins to interfere with your daily activities. This surge in exhaustion is called post-exertion malaise or PEM. PEM will be extreme, especially after any physical or mental activity, and can last for more than 24 hours after the activity. Other symptoms of the condition include:

  • Feeling exhausted or unrefreshed after sleep
  • Insomnia and other sleeping disorders
  • Memory loss
  • Loss in focus and concentration
  • Feeling faint when switching positions from sitting to standing

It is important to note that many who suffer from CFS do not look sick, which is why doctors have a hard time diagnosing this condition. There are also no medical tests that help diagnose the disorder.

Can we cure CFS?

There is no cure for CFS but it can be managed by treating the symptoms. Some symptoms may require physical or psychological therapy, while others may require medication.

One of the alternate ways to manage CFS is to make changes to your lifestyle. Avoiding caffeine, avoiding napping during the day, eliminating the consumption of alcohol and nicotine also goes a long way in controlling the symptoms. You can also cope with CFS by joining a support group. It, additionally, helps to try meditation and deep breathing techniques to help release anxiety.

What are the risk factors of CFS?

CFS affects around 1 million people in the United States. One of the factors that contribute to the condition is age. Experts have noticed that CFS is commonly diagnosed or observed in people who are middle-aged and in their 40s and 50s. Another factor that plays a role is gender. It is noticed that females are two to four times more prone to CFS than their male counterparts. There are also other factors that affect a person’s chances of developing the condition, they are:

  • Genetics
  • Allergies
  • Stress/Anxiety/Depression
  • Other environmental factors

It is vital to keep in mind that adolescents and children can also suffer from chronic fatigue.

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