Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is characterised by persistent exhaustion for at least six months. It is a debilitating illness that affects the person both mentally and physically and can leave people bed-ridden for years.

Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The symptoms of CFS are as varied as their severity. The common defining feature is unexplained exhaustion that isn’t relieved by rest. The exhaustion prevents someone from doing their regular activities. Other symptoms include:

• Muscle and joint pain
• Impaired memory and concentration
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Severe mental and physical exhaustion after exertion
• Sensitivity to light, sound, smell, chemicals and foods
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Tender lymph nodes
• Digestive problems
• Difficulty maintain an upright position due to dizziness, unstable blood pressure or irregular heartbeat
• Psychological problems – depression, moodiness, anxiety, panic attacks

ME Similar to CFS

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or ME means pain in the muscles and inflammation in the brain and spinal cord and comes under the umbrella of CFS.

Chronic Fatigue Symptoms Similar to Other Illnesses

If you suspect you may have CFS it’s important to be checked by your medical practitioner to rule out other illnesses with similar symptoms such as diabetes, lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism, substance abuse, sleep disorders and some cancers. 

What Causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

The cause of CFS is unknown. It can occur suddenly and be accompanied with ‘flu-like symptoms or appear several months after a bacterial or viral infection or severe stress. Other causes may be:

• Immune, neurological and hormonal responses
• Blood pressure, circulatory and cardiac abnormalities
• Digestive tract disturbances
• Genetic factors
• Biochemical abnormalities

Who Gets Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

CFS affects more women than men. Children can also get CFS.

CFS Symptoms Vary

The severity of symptoms varies greatly between each person. Some people can manage moderate amounts of activity and can continue to work. Others may be completely bed-ridden and may even find it challenging to read a book or have a conversation. The outcome for people with CFS varies too. Some people eventually get better, some remain the same, some have relapses and some people get worse.
 
The symptoms and severity of CFS varies from person to person. The defining factor is overwhelming tiredness that isn’t relieved by sleep and that prevents you carrying out everyday activities. To find out how to manage CFS see our article on treating CFS naturally.