Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can happen to anyone. It’s not ‘just another form of depression’ but instead a debilitating illness that permeates into every area of your life. It is a fatigue which cannot be explained by physical or psychiatric means. With over 80% of cases starting in the immediate aftermath of a viral infection, CFS can significantly impact an individual’s life at any stage.
As we understand more about CFS, these guidelines have been developed for international consistency in identifying CFS:
- Is of new or definite onset
- Is persistent or relapsing
- Has been present for at least six months
- Is not due to ‘overdoing’ it
- Is not substantially relieved by rest
- Results in a substantial reduction in previous levels of
- Occupational activity
and/or - Social activity
and/or - Personal activity
and/or - Educational activity
- Occupational activity
Symptoms that are also identified within CFS include at least four of the following:
- Recurring sore throats
- Tender glands in the neck or under the arms
- Muscle pains
- Joint pain
- Headaches
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Difficulties with memory and concentration
- Difficulty recovering from exertion
It is important to note that while these diagnostic criteria help medical professionals identify CFS, they are not infallible. CFS can have a crippling effect on your life but recovery is possible! If you are struggling to understand your fatigue, meet with a medical professional to determine if it could be CFS and your options towards recovering and living a healthy, normal, and energetic life.
