Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that can take an extensive toll on a person’s quality of life. Patients suffering from this condition are unable to work, attend school, socialise, or manage their families or personal affairs. A person’s financial situation may be severely harmed as well.
Most outsiders incorrectly believe that a person with CFS is ‘just fatigued,’ that the illness is ‘in their heads,’ or that they should ‘just push through.’ This misperception is harmful since it can lead to a person pushing themselves past their capabilities, resulting in relapses and worsening their illness.
In this blog, we will explore some frequently asked questions about this long-term illness along with the clinical features in patients with CFS and the available treatment options.
FAQ #1: What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
It is a complicated, multi-system, chronic disorder characterized by unrelenting exhaustion, regardless of prolonged periods of rest. Symptoms may aggravate with simple physical activities that a person once took for granted.
FAQ #2: What is chronic fatigue syndrome also called?
CFS is also referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID).
FAQ #3: What are the early signs of CFS?
The early signs of this illness is an evident and noticeable evident exhaustion that comes on quickly and often comes and goes or never ceases. Bed rest does not help, and physical or mental activity may worsen the pain.
FAQ #4: Is CFS more common in women?
CFS is diagnosed two to four times more commonly in women than in men. The cause of this condition is unknown but possibly may include genetic, psychological and social factors.
FAQ #5: What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?
A person suffering from this condition experiences severe chronic fatigue (persisting for at least six or more consecutive months) with no other known medical conditions. Other clinical symptoms may include:
- Sore throat
- Tender lymph nodes
- Muscle pain
- Chronic insomnia
- Orthostatic intolerance
- Multi-joint pain without swelling or redness
- Frequent headaches of a new type, pattern or severity
- Substantial impairment in memory or concentration
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours, referred to as post-exertional malaise (PEM)
FAQ #6: What causes chronic fatigue syndrome?
Despite a vigorous search, the causes of CFS aren’t fully understood yet. Scientists have been researching chronic fatigue syndrome for many years, and speculate that contributing factors may include:
- Viruses
- A weakened immune system
- Stress
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic predisposition to develop CFS
- Viral infections
- Other traumatic conditions
FAQ #7: Are there any risk factors to CFS?
Research indicates that CFS is most common in people in their 40s and 50s and women in their 40s and 50s are more likely than men to be affected. Other factors that may increase the risk for CFS include:
FAQ #8: Is there any treatment for CFS?
There is currently no cure for CFS. The therapies for treating CFS are directed at symptoms relief. It is critical to maintaining optimum health by eating a well-balanced diet and getting enough rest, exercising regularly without becoming exhausted and regulating oneself because too much stress can exacerbate CFS symptoms. Working with a doctor to establish a programme that gives the most benefits will also help you feel less frustrated about your sickness.
FAQ #9: What are some alternative therapies to treat the symptoms of CFS?
Non-pharmacological therapies include:
- Acupuncture
- Aquatic therapy
- Chiropractic
- Cranial-sacral
- Light exercise
- Massage
- Self-hypnosis
- Stretching
- Tai chi
- Therapeutic touch
- Yoga
Certain psychotherapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy also help in alleviating some of the distress associated with CFS.
FAQ #10: What lifestyle changes can help treat CFS?
- Limiting caffeine intake
- Limiting or avoiding nicotine and alcohol
- Trying to avoid napping during the day
- Creating a sleep routine
- Trying an anti-inflammatory diet
- Staying hydrated
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Skipping heavily processed foods
FAQ #11: How is CFS diagnosed?
Given the fact that there are no tests for CFS, it is a very challenging condition to diagnose. There are no medical tests available to diagnose CFS. Its symptoms mimic many other conditions. Because many persons with CFS don’t “appear to be unwell,” clinicians may be unaware that they have a health problem.
CFS is a complicated disease for doctors to diagnose as no single medicine or treatment can address all the possible symptoms. Your doctor may run a few tests to rule out other medical causes for your fatigue when determining a diagnosis.
Final thoughts
Having chronic fatigue syndrome can be difficult for most people. it is important to keep a positive approach to getting well, listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself.
