Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness lasting for at least six months and that does not improve with rest. This fatigue usually gets worse after physical or mental effort, a symptom known as post-exertional malaise.
Also called myalgic encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue syndrome can lead to symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, poor sleep, body aches, and difficulty thinking clearly.
Treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome is managed by a rheumatologist and focuses on relieving symptoms. It may also involve counseling sessions and regular physical activity to help improve overall well-being.
Chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms
The main symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include:
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Severe fatigue that does not improve with rest;
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Difficulty thinking, remembering, or concentrating;
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Muscle and joint pain;
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Headaches;
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Poor-quality sleep that leaves the person feeling unrested;
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Dizziness when changing positions;
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Irritability, anxiety, and depression;
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Weight loss or gain;
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Nausea and/or vomiting;
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Night sweats.
In some cases, people may also experience increased sensitivity to light, sound, or smells, a sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. In more severe cases, weakness can be so intense that it may prevent the person from getting out of bed.
Confirming a diagnosis
A rheumatologist or primary care provider can diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome based on an evaluation of symptoms, their intensity, and the person’s medical history.
A doctor may also order blood and urine tests to rule out other possible causes of fatigue, such as anemia, sleep apnea, hypothyroidism, and psychological disorders.
Possible causes
Several factors may increase the risk of developing chronic fatigue syndrome, such as:
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Family history of chronic fatigue syndrome;
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Infections caused by the Epstein–Barr virus, human herpesvirus 6, or parvovirus;
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Sedentary lifestyle;
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Physical trauma, such as illness or surgery;
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Emotional trauma or chronic stress;
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Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS);
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Hormonal imbalances.
This condition is more common in women between 40 and 50 years old and may sometimes be confused with menopause symptoms, since fatigue and irritability are also frequent during this stage due to hormonal changes. However, chronic fatigue syndrome does not have a single known cause and may result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.
Chronic fatigue syndrome treatment
Treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome should be managed by a rheumatologist or primary care provider and may include:
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Counseling sessions, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, to help reduce social isolation and improve emotional well-being;
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Regular physical activity, adapted to individual limits, to balance rest and exercise and avoid triggering post-exertional malaise;
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Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve muscle or joint pain;
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Antidepressants, such as fluoxetine or sertraline, for people diagnosed with depression or anxiety.
In addition, other complementary approaches have shown potential benefits for chronic fatigue syndrome, including ketogenic diets, probiotic use, and controlled doses of hydrocortisone. However, more studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness.