Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome is basically a complex disorder, which is described by excessive fatigue. Such fatigue tend to get worsen with mental or physical activity, however does not get better with rest. What causes CFS is yet unknown, even though there are numerous theories that range from psychological stress to viral infections. Few experts believe CFS may get triggered due to the combination of such factors.

No particular test can confirm CFS diagnosis. The person may need to conduct numerous medical tests for ruling out some other problems which have identical symptoms. Moreover, the treatment for CFS tends to focus on relieving the symptoms.

What are the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

There are total 8 official symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome:
• Concentration or memory loss.
• Fatigue.
• Sore throat.
• Unrefreshing sleep.
• A new pattern, type or severity of headache.
• Muscle pain.
• Joint pain. (It moves from a joint to another however not cause redness or swelling does).
• Severe exhaustion that last for over twenty four hours post mental or physical exercise.

When is the high time to consult a doctor?

Generally, fatigue can signal towards many illnesses for example psychological disorders or infections. In case you feel excessive or persistent fatigue, consult your doctor.

What are the causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

What causes CFS, is yet unknown. Though, it can be the combination of certain factors which affect individuals those born with the predisposition for CFS.

Few factors which have been deeply studies are:
• Viral infections.
• Problems with immune system.
• Hormonal imbalances.

What are the risk factors?

Certain factors that tend to increase the risk of CFS are:
• Increasing age.
• If you are a woman.
• Excessive stress.

What are the complications?

Few possible complications are:
• Social isolation.
• Depressions.
• High work absences.

How is the disorder diagnosed?

No particular test can confirm the diagnosis of this disorder. Since its symptoms can mimic numerous other problems related to health, you just need to wait patiently for the diagnosis. The doctor will rule out many other illnesses prior diagnosing the disorder. Such may include:
• Medical problems.
• Sleep disorders.
• Mental health problems.

Diagnosing criteria:

In order to meet CFS diagnostic criteria, you must experience persistent, unexplained fatigues for 6 to 8 months, together with at least 4 of the below mentioned symptoms:
• Sore throat.
• Concentration or memory loss.
• Enlarged lymph nodes (armpits or neck).
• Muscle pain.
• Unrefreshing sleep.
• New pattern, severity or type of headache.
• Moving pain from a joint to another.
• Severe exhaustion that last for over twenty four hours post mental or physical exercise.