Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
| Name: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome |
| Also known as: GFS; ME; Myalgic Encephalomyelitis; Post-Viral Syndrome; Royal Free Disease; Tapanui Flu |
| A persistent tiredness and easy fatigue that persists for many months for no obvious reason. |
Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Possibly caused by a virus, but some patients find that certain foods aggravate the condition. It is possible it is actually several diseases that overlap with their symptoms, and due to a combination of infection, immune deficiencies, autoimmune type condition (where the body rejects its own tissue), chronic inflammation, stress and psychiatric disturbances. It is a matter of debate whether the distressing symptoms cause the psychological problems, or vice versa. |
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The diagnosis can only be confirmed if in the following list both major criteria are met, plus six symptoms and two signs from the minor criteria.
Major criteria
1. New persistent or intermittent, debilitating fatigue severe enough to reduce or impair average daily activity below 50% of normal activity for a period of more than 6 months
2. Exclusion of all other causes by thorough clinical evaluation, and blood tests Minor criteria — Symptoms
3. Generalized fatigue lasting more than 24 hours following levels of exertion that would have been easily tolerated previously
4. Vague headache
5. Unexplained general muscle weakness
6. Muscle pains
7. Arthritis that moves from joint to joint without any apparent damage to the joint
8. One or more of the following problems (avoidance of bright lights, forgetfulness, irritability, confusion, poor concentration, depression, intermittent visual disturbances, difficulty thinking)
9. Inability to sleep, or excessive sleepiness
10. Rapid onset over hours or days of major criteria.
Minor criteria Signs
Documented by a physician on at least two occasions at least a month apart
1. Mild fever greater than 38.6°C
2. Sore throat with no pus present
3. Tender enlarged lymph nodes in neck or arm pit |
Tests for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
No specific diagnostic tests, but numerous blood tests may show minor abnormalities. Tests are performed to exclude any other possible cause. |
Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
No specific treatment available, but patients can benefit by having an understanding doctor who may use antidepressants, anti-inflammatory medication, steroids and other drugs that may be helpful.
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Complications of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome of its treatment
None. |
Likely Outcome of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
No cure, but with time, most cases slowly improve. Some patients are left with long term tiredness so severe that they are unable to return to work or undertake normal daily activities. |
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