Chronic fatigue is a complex medical condition characterized by extreme and persistent feelings of tiredness, weakness, and lack of energy. It goes far beyond normal fatigue experienced after a long day and is not alleviated by rest or sleep.
The key defining symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is debilitating fatigue lasting 6 months or longer that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other medical conditions. Along with fatigue, people with CFS often experience various other symptoms like:
The exact cause of CFS is unknown, but some theories include:
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To be diagnosed with CFS, thorough medical examinations must rule out other potential causes of fatigue first. There are currently no standard laboratory tests available for diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome directly. Instead, diagnosis relies on identifying the condition’s tell-tale group of symptoms.
It is estimated that 836,000 to 2.5 million Americans suffer from CFS, though many cases may be undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to lack of awareness. Statistics show that:
There is currently no known cure for chronic fatigue syndrome. However, to manage symptoms:
The best treatment approach involves medications plus lifestyle changes tailored to each patient's specific limitations and goals. Having adequate social / family support also aids coping. Though living with CFS is challenging, patients can still improve their functionality and quality of life immensely with the right help.