Chronic fatigue is a complex medical condition characterized by extreme and persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other medical conditions. The key defining symptom is a debilitating fatigue lasting 6 months or longer that impacts daily functioning and does not improve with rest. Some key facts about chronic fatigue:
- It is a legitimate medical disorder that causes fatigue and other symptoms like muscle pain, impaired memory, insomnia, etc. The fatigue is often severe and not explained by an underlying condition.
- Several risk factors have been identified, including viral infections, immune system abnormalities, stress, and genetics. The exact cause is still unknown.
- There are a few names used interchangeably to describe this condition, like myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID). The most common term is still CFS.
- Between 890,000 to 2.5 million Americans are estimated to have CFS. It can affect people of any age, gender or race, but is more predominant among women.
- There are currently no medical tests to diagnose CFS. Doctors make a diagnosis based on thorough exclusion of other fatigue causes, review of symptoms, medical history and ruling out other conditions.
- Typical treatments focus on relieving symptoms. Lifestyle management, like determining energy limits, pacing activity, reducing stress, and customizing sleep habits can help. Medications or talk therapy may sometimes be recommended.
- Many patients with chronic fatigue cannot work or attend school. Support groups and disability assistance often provide vital help with coping and finance.