Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Types, Symptoms, Causes And Treatment

Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a medical disorder that is identified by extreme fatigue or tiredness that an underlying medical condition cannot explain. The exact causes of CFS are not fully understood yet, but some theories suggest a viral infection or psychological stress. Since no single cause has been identified yet and many other conditions produce similar symptoms, diagnosing CFS can be challenging. Although CFS can affect anyone, it is most common among people in their 40s and 50s. 

The extreme and persistent fatigue from CFS lasts for at least 6 months and doesn’t go away with bed rest. Medications, diet, and lifestyle changes may help you manage symptoms.

In this blog, we delve into the complexities of CFS, exploring its symptoms, potential causes, challenges in diagnosis and treatment, and avenues of research offering hope for patients. Read the blog to know more.

Table Of Contents

1. What Are The 7 Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

2. What Are The 3 Types Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

3. Challenges In Diagnosis And Treatment

4. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Management Approaches 

5. Dietitian’s Recommendation

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

What Are The 7 Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Its hallmark symptom is severe fatigue that persists for at least six months and is not alleviated by rest. CFS affects individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, although it's more common in women. Other common symptoms include:

1. Fatigue

This fatigue is often described as overwhelming. The hallmark symptom of CFS is profound and debilitating fatigue that cannot be relieved by rest and can significantly impair daily functioning.

2. Cognitive Dysfunction (Brain Fog)

This involves difficulties with concentration and memory problems. Many individuals with CFS experience cognitive impairment, often referred to as "brain fog." word-finding difficulties, and overall mental unclarity.

Also Read: Brain Fog: Symptoms, Causes And 7 Ways Of Treatment To Your Stress 

3. Muscle and Joint Pain

These pains can be widespread and contribute to overall discomfort and reduced mobility. Chronic pain, including muscle aches and joint pain, is prevalent in individuals with CFS.

4. Sleep Disturbances

It is common in CFS and can include unrefreshing sleep (waking up feeling tired despite adequate sleep duration), insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep), and disruptions to sleep patterns.

5. Headaches

These headaches can vary in intensity. The headaches, including tension headaches and migraines, are frequently reported by individuals with CFS and may further contribute to the overall burden of symptoms.

Also Read: Migraine: What Are the Symptoms, Treatment & Cure

6. Sore Throat and Swollen Lymph Nodes

These symptoms may come and go. Some individuals with CFS experience symptoms such as a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes, resembling those of a mild flu-like illness, and are often accompanied by other CFS symptoms.

7. Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM)

This can occur immediately after activity or be delayed, sometimes by hours or days.  Even minor physical or mental exertion can exacerbate symptoms and may lead to a worsening of fatigue, pain, and other symptoms. One of the most characteristic features of CFS is post-exertional malaise. 

Many patients report onset following an infection, such as environmental triggers, immune dysfunction, viral infections, genetic predisposition, and hormonal imbalances. Still, the exact cause of CFS remains elusive. 

What Are The 3 Types Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Fatigue, often described as a feeling of tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy, can manifest in various ways and be caused by various factors. The 3 types of fatigue syndrome are:

1. Physical Fatigue

Physical fatigue can also be exacerbated by nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, poor sleep, or underlying health conditions affecting the muscles or cardiovascular system. 

Symptoms of physical fatigue may include difficulty performing physical tasks, muscle weakness, slowed reaction times, and reduced coordination. It can result from physical exertion, such as exercise, manual labour, or prolonged periods of activity without adequate rest.

Also Read: Understanding Iron Deficiency: Diet Plan, Recipes, Causes, Symptoms And Treatment 

2. Mental Fatigue

Mental fatigue can also be exacerbated by factors such as depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive overload, anxiety, and stress. It can result from prolonged periods of mental work, such as studying, problem-solving, or intense cognitive activities. 

Mental fatigue, also known as cognitive fatigue, is characterised by a sense of mental exhaustion or difficulty concentrating on tasks that require focus and mental effort. Symptoms of mental fatigue may include difficulty concentrating, reduced cognitive performance, impaired memory, irritability, and impaired decision-making abilities.

3. Emotional Fatigue

Emotional fatigue can also be exacerbated by factors such as depression, anxiety disorders, chronic stress, or burnout. It can result from prolonged periods of emotional stress, such as dealing with relationship issues, work-related stress, grief, or trauma. 

Symptoms of emotional fatigue may include feelings of sadness, irritability, apathy, emotional numbness, reduced empathy, and difficulty regulating emotions. Emotional fatigue, also known as psychological fatigue, refers to a feeling of emotional exhaustion or drained energy related to one's emotions and emotional responses. 

Also Read: 12 Emotional Wellness Activities For Adults & Students

Challenges In Diagnosis And Treatment

Consequently, many patients endure a lengthy and frustrating diagnostic odyssey before receiving a proper diagnosis. Diagnosing CFS is challenging due to the lack of specific diagnostic tests such as psychiatric illness, autoimmune disorder, and fibromyalgia. 

Once diagnosed, treatment options for CFS are limited and primarily focus on symptom management. These may include:

• Lifestyle modifications like dietary changes and treating chronic fatigue syndrome with stress management

• Graded exercise therapy (GET) and also Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 

• Medications like sleep aids, pain relievers and antidepressants

• Alternative therapies include meditation, yoga, and acupuncture.

Moreover, scepticism surrounding CFS as a legitimate medical condition has hindered research funding and access to care, exacerbating the plight of patients.

However, these approaches yield mixed results, and what works for one patient may not benefit another. 

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Management Approaches 

There is reason for optimism in the field of CFS research despite the challenges. Advancements in technology and a growing understanding of the condition's underlying mechanisms are paving the way for potential treatments and new insights. Some promising areas of research include:

Dietitian’s Recommendation

A dietitian can provide personalised guidance tailored to individual needs, but general advice includes taking a nutrient-rich diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Consider small, frequent meals to help regulate blood sugar levels and support sustained energy throughout the day. For individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for managing symptoms and supporting overall well-being. Limit consumption of processed foods, caffeine, and sugary snacks, which can contribute to energy crashes. 

Dt. Akshata Gandevikar

The Final Say

By raising awareness, advocating for research funding, and supporting individuals with CFS, we can work towards a future where this enigmatic condition no longer exists in the lives of those affected. Patients face significant challenges in obtaining a diagnosis and accessing effective treatment, leading to profound physical, emotional, and social impacts.

Chronic fatigue syndrome affects millions worldwide, yet it remains poorly understood and often overlooked. However, ongoing research offers hope for a better understanding of CFS and the development of therapies that may help improve patients' quality of life. 

FAQs

1. What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?

The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome:

• Sensitivity to light

• Headache

• Muscle and joint pain

• Insomnia

• Forgetfulness

  
  

2. What is the main cause of chronic fatigue syndrome?

Here are the chronic fatigue syndrome causes

• Infections

• Fibromyalgia

• Psychiatric disorders

• Autoimmunity

• Endocrine disease

• Genes

• Heart disease

  
  

3. What are the chronic fatigue syndrome treatments?

The treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome may include Medicine such as corticosteroids, antidepressants, and light-intensity aerobic exercise.

4. What are the chronic fatigue syndrome therapies?

Therapies for chronic fatigue syndrome include deep breathing and muscle relaxation, massage, and movement therapies like stretching, yoga, and tai chi.

5. What are the exercises for chronic fatigue syndrome?

The exercise for chronic fatigue syndrome includes the following:

• Deep breathing

• Stretching

• Yoga

• Tai chi 

  
  

6. Is CFS life-threatening?

Yes, chronic level of chronic fatigue can cause cardiovascular issues, which can cause mortality.

7. How do you test for chronic fatigue?

You may get diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome by getting tested for your physical examination and family history. It can also be done by evaluating your other fatiguing illnesses with a targeted work-up.

8. How do you fix chronic fatigue?

Here are some of the key points to get rid of chronic fatigue syndrome:

• Ditch inflammatory foods

• Stay hydrated

• Limit your caffeine intake

• Try smaller, more frequent meals

• Pay attention to sugar

References

• Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

• Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) | CDC

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | CFS | MedlinePlus

• Symptoms of ME/CFS | Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) | CDC

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