Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating illness characterized by severe fatigue that lasts longer than six months. Statistics show that about 1 million Americans meet the criteria for CFS although most cases are undiagnosed since there’s no specific test for this syndrome.

People with CFS typically face difficulties performing daily tasks, attending school, and maintaining a job. And, at least 25% of them end up confined to their homes for longer periods of time. Also, CFS patients experience worsening symptoms after physical or mental activity, known as post-exertional malaise, which can last for a couple of days or even weeks.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Persistent exhaustion is the main symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome. Severe fatigue often develops abruptly, usually after an infection or stressful event. In addition to fatigue, people with CFS may also experience:

• Headaches or muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Tender lymph nodes
• Memory issues
• Concentration problems
• Sleep issues
• Lightheadedness
• Depression or anxiety

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Causes

Researchers haven’t identified a direct cause of chronic fatigue syndrome yet. However, they have been able to select several factors that may affect the development of CFS, including:

• Infection – Many CFS patients report experiencing symptoms of CFS after a viral or bacterial infection such as a cold or flu, mononucleosis, or COVID-19.
• Immune system differences – Studies found that people with CFS have differences in the amount and function of specific immune cells.
• Genetics – Researchers have also identified genetic differences in CFS patients meaning that relatives of these patients are at a higher risk for developing the syndrome.
• Sleep deprivation – Certain studies suggest that CFS patients get less REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, but more research is needed to identify the connection.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Risk Factors

In general, anyone can develop chronic fatigue syndrome even though certain groups of people are at a higher risk, including women, white people, people aged 40 to 60, and people with a family history of CFS.

Still, since most cases of CFS are left undiagnosed, we can say that these characteristics describe people who are more likely to get a diagnosis. Unequal access to healthcare services across different populations and insufficient education about chronic fatigue syndrome among healthcare professionals are the main barriers to getting a CFS diagnosis.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Diagnosis

As noted before, there’s no definite test for chronic fatigue syndrome. Also, experts are constantly conducting new research on CFS. As a result, the diagnosis criteria are frequently updated.

Typically, physicians use a set of criteria consisting of three symptoms that last for at least six months to diagnose people with CFS. These symptoms include:

• Disruptive fatigue that continues even after resting
• Worsened fatigue after conducting normal daily activities
• Feeling unrested even after getting the needed amount of sleep

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment

Last but not least, let’s have a look at chronic fatigue syndrome treatment. Even though there’s no cure for the syndrome there are treatment options available to relieve or manage CFS symptoms over time.

A chronic fatigue syndrome treatment plan usually addresses a patient’s specific symptoms or other health conditions. Generally, it includes a mix of approaches such as:

• Sleep hygiene
• Medication
• Exercise
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Managing CFS symptoms may be challenging or isolating. Hence, if you suspect you might have chronic fatigue syndrome, ensure you consult your doctor as soon as possible and get the treatment you need.