Myalgic encephalomyelitis is also known by the name “chronic fatigue syndrome.” In this Dr. Rajka blog, about the possible causes, recognize the early warning signs and explore CFS solutions today.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms
Fatigue, of course, is one of the CFS symptoms, along with the following:
- Sleep that is unrefreshing
- Pain in the joints or muscles
- Dizziness that gets worse when you go from lying down or sitting up
- Difficulties with memory or thinking
- Extreme exhaustion after engaging in mental or physical exercise
After being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, patients cannot go about their lives as they did before. In the past, they were able to bathe themselves and cook for themselves, but after the diagnosis, they may go days without being able to do these things. Because of this, people diagnosed with CFS have extreme difficulties keeping their jobs or remaining in school. They find it difficult to keep up with their social lives and maintain their relationships with their families.
This condition is confusing for people close to the patient because those diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome do not appear to be sick. However, if they do try to do their normal activities, they find that they feel worse than they did before the activity. It does not matter if it is a physical or a mental activity. Afterward, they may spend long periods of time in bed.
What Causes Fatigue?
The following are chronic fatigue causes:
Issues Converting Fuel into Energy
The bodies of people diagnosed with CFS have difficulties converting fats and sugars into energy.
Experiences with Emotional or Physical Trauma
Some people have stated that they underwent surgery, an injury or extreme emotional distress right before their symptoms began.
Infections
Chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms began for some after they recovered from a bacterial or viral infection.
Their Genetics
Multiple people are diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome in one family, so there appears to be a genetic component to the disorder.
The Risk of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Is Higher for Some People.
Some risk factors increase the likelihood of contracting chronic fatigue syndrome, including the following:
Gender
More women receive a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. Some people in the medical community believe that this is because women are more likely to report their symptoms to their healthcare providers.
Age
In most cases, young to middle-aged people receive a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome, although people of all ages have been diagnosed with the condition.
Other Medical Conditions
Some people with a history of other medical conditions are more likely to develop chronic fatigue syndrome. These other medical conditions include postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). This is a medical condition in which symptoms occur after the patient transitions from lying down to standing up. These symptoms include fatigue, dizziness and a fast heart rate. Another condition related to CFS is fibromyalgia, and it is a condition that causes long-term pain as well as fatigue.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment
Chronic fatigue syndrome is difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are like many other illnesses. The medical community does not currently have a test that can definitively state that a person has this condition. Also, people find that their symptoms change as time goes by, or they may disappear entirely before coming back again. This should not worry you if you are concerned that chronic fatigue syndrome is a problem that you are having. Your physician will do a complete examination and will determine what is causing your symptoms.
If you are concerned that you are experiencing chronic fatigue syndrome, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rajka today.
