Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Depression to Bloating, 5 Telltale Signs That Indicate Its NOT an Ordinary Tiredness

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a medical illness characterised by extreme fatigue or tiredness that doesn’t go away with proper rest. It is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID). The causes of CFS aren’t fully aware yet but some theories explain that it can be due to viral infection, psychological stress, or combination factors. It can affect anyone but is common among women in their 40s and 50s. It can affect several parts of body, including the immune, nervous and endocrine systems.

Here are 5 signs and symptoms that indicate the severeness of Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

SIGNS OF CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

1. Cognitive Difficulties: The person may feel difficulties with memory, concentration and information processing. It can make the brain foggy and impact daily functioning of tasks.
2. Body Pain: Muscle pain, joint pain, headaches and sore throat are frequent complaints among chronic fatigue syndrome patients.
3. Emotional Disturbances: Depression, anxiety, irritability and mood swings are common in those suffering from CFS. These can impact daily life and can arise due to dealing with the chronic nature of the illness.
4. Digestive Troubles: Poor gut health symptoms like bloating, nausea, abdominal pain and irritable bowel syndrome can occur in some individuals with CFS. These symptoms can lead to digestive troubles and further impact the quality of life.
5. Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM): This is a key feature of CFS where physical or mental exertion can lead to worsening of symptoms. It is not just a usual tiredness but also an exacerbation of fatigue, pain, cognitive difficulties and can persist for days, weeks or even longer.

There is no specific cure or approved treatment for CFS. The CDC earlier recommended cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and graded exercise therapy (GET), which uses physical activity as a treatment for ME/CFS. After concerns over their effectiveness and possibility of harm, the CDC stopped recommending these treatments, according to the New York state health department.

Doctors suggest different ways to deal with the symptoms of the disease. Patients are recommended ‘pacing’ in which patients adopt a technique to balance rest and activity together, helping in preventing crashes caused by exertion.