What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

A difficult to diagnose disease discernible by extreme exhaustion, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can often become debilitating to its sufferers. Sometimes known as Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, this chronic condition is frequently misdiagnosed or not taken seriously by some doctors, even though it can leave a person functioning well below normal capacity for months at a time.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is most frequently reported by women, but all demographics may be affected. The cause of the disease is not known, and therefore there is no cure. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not simply feeling tired. It is severe fatigue, lack of stamina, an inability to concentrate, and an overall feeling of being unable to cope or function normally. It is often accompanied by discomfort and depression.

The symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include but are not limited to headaches, sore throat, flu like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, joint pain, inability to concentrate, light-headedness, prolonged malaise after even light exertion, and continuous fatigue. This serious form of fatigue keeps a patient from feeling refreshed, even after having plenty of sleep or rest.

If a person suffers from persistent fatigue and experiences four or more of the above-mentioned symptoms for at least six months, she may suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If the symptoms are not related to another illness, testing is indicated to determine whether or not Chronic Fatigue is the culprit. Since there is no proven cause for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a battery of lab tests is conducted, as a way of ruling out other illnesses. The physician will arrive at a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by eliminating other possible conditions.

It is difficult to determine how many sufferers fully recover, or even what the definition of full recovery might be. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome runs in cycles, which can include lengthy bouts of illness followed by periods of good health. "Remission" may last for years in some patients, making it difficult to establish whether the patient has recovered or is simply enjoying longer periods of well-being.

While there is no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, treatment is available to help alleviate symptoms and make the patient more comfortable. The doctor, with input from the patient, will develop a detailed treatment regimen designed to meet that patient's specific needs. Diet and moderate exercise may also help improve symptoms.