Chronic fatigue syndrome can be a troubling and complicated disorder. Characterized by excessive fatigue, the exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is still unknown. Most common in people aged between 30 and 40, it can affect people of all ages. And though women get chronic fatigue syndrome more often then men, sex is not generally regarded as a specific risk factor. With the proper diagnosis and treatment, chronic fatigue syndrome can be managed. If left untreated, chronic fatigue syndrome can lead to depression, social isolation and problems with attendance at work.
Primary Signs
Chronic fatigue's main symptom is fatigue. In addition to this symptom, there are eight official symptoms of chronic fatigue. These include loss of memory or concentration, sore throat, unexplained muscle pain, headache, unrefreshing sleep and extreme exhaustion that lasts more than 24 hours after mental or physical exercise. The final two symptoms are painful and enlarged lymph nodes in your armpits or neck, and pain that moves from one joint to another without swelling or redness.
Other Signs
People with chronic fatigue have also reported abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and nausea as part of their symptoms. You may also experience morning stiffness, chest pain, earache, and dizziness. While these aren't part of the official definition, they are common among sufferers.
Causes
While a specific cause hasn't been identified, there are several possible causes. These include depression, iron deficiency, anemia and low blood sugar. In addition, viral infections, history of allergies and dysfunction in the immune system are also possible causes. Your doctor will examine you and also review your medical history to help in identifying chronic fatigue syndrome and any possible conditions you may have that may be playing a role in your fatigue.
Diagnosis
To meet the criteria of chronic fatigue, you must have persistent unexplained fatigue for at least six months. You must also have at least four of the eight primary signs and symptoms. While there isn't a specific test or diagnostic procedure to confirm chronic fatigue, your doctor will reach the conclusion by testing and eliminating other possible causes of your fatigue. Your doctor will be looking to rule out things such as sleep apnea, hypothyroidism, eating disorders or severe obesity.
Treatment
There are no specific treatments for chronic fatigue. Treatment will usually consist of a combination of different treatments to help alleviate symptoms and fatigue. This may include moderate daily exercise to help relieve stress. You may also be asked to reduce your daily workload in order to reduce stress, if possible, and gradually work back to a manageable level. Cognitive behavior therapy can help replace negative thoughts with positive ones and thus improve your chances at recovery. Over-the-counter pain relievers and medication for depression also can help with the symptoms of chronic fatigue.
Tags: chronic fatigue, fatigue syndrome, chronic fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome, doctor will, possible causes