Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue, medically known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating long-term illness characterized by extreme tiredness or fatigue that doesn't improve with rest and isn't caused by an underlying medical condition. The fatigue significantly impairs daily activities and cognitive functioning. Diagnosing CFS/ME can be difficult, as symptoms resemble those of many other illnesses, and there’s no definitive diagnostic test. The exact cause of CFS/ME remains unclear, though some theories suggest it could be triggered by viral infections, psychological stress, or a combination of factors.

Apart from persistent fatigue, individuals with CFS/ME may experience a variety of symptoms, including muscle and joint pain, headache, sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes, difficulty with memory and concentration, unrefreshing sleep, and post-exertional malaise (PEM) where symptoms worsen after physical or mental exertion. These symptoms must persist for more than six months for a diagnosis. There is no cure for CFS/ME, but treatment strategies focus on symptom management, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), graded exercise therapy (GET), and lifestyle modifications to help patients cope with the condition.