Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

An immunological disorder characterized by severe fatigue in addition to four or more specific symptoms.


An illness of unknown etiology characterized by fatigue, mild cognitive dysfunction, and in some cases mild fever. Many patients with this syndrome may have depression.


Recently designated semi-disease, often attributed to EBY (the Epstein-Barr virus) or CMV (Cytomegalovirus) infections, characterized by FUOs (fevers of unknown origin) and resulting in the patient feeling miserable. In most of us, the microorganisms involved in CFS usually provoke nothing more than a head cold; in some individuals, however, they induce a long, grinding, and debilitating disorder, characterized by exhaustion, depression, periodic fevers-a crazy-quilt of symptoms that frustrates both the sufferer and the sometimes skeptical physician.


Encephalomyelitis is an illness with a range of symptoms, long-term fatigue being the most predominant, that limit daily activities.


Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) or chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome in children and adolescents is characterized by debilitating fatigue, neurological problems, and a variety of symptoms (Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America, Inc., 1996- 2000). It is defined by a thorough medical examination that excludes other medical and psychiatric diagnoses and by unexplained, persistent chronic fatigue that exists for at least 6 months and is of new onset resulting in reduced occupational, educational, social, or personal activities. Second, at least four of the following symptoms co-occur: substantial impairment in short-term memory or concentration, multi-joint pain without swelling or redness, headaches, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, muscle pain, unrefreshing sleep, and post-exertional malaise lasting for more than 24 hours.


A condition that begins with flu-like symptoms that persist indefinitely. Symptoms may include mild fever, muscle and joint aches, mood swings and inability to function at reduced activity level. The cause is unknown. Treatment consists of rest and relief of symptoms.


A serious, often disabling illness characterized by persistent, unrelenting, and severe exhaustion, as well as muscle pain and cognitive disorders that are sometimes referred to as “brain fog.” Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is not associated with significant muscle weakness, psychological disorders, or physical illness. The condition affects women three times more often than men. Adolescents may be affected, but less frequently than adults.


A syndrome marked by incapacitating fatigue that rest does not relieve, and decreased physical, cognitive, and social function. It affects men and women of all ages and races. It is frequently associated with decreased concentration, irritability, sleep disturbances, recurrent sore throats, low-grade temperatures, swollen glands, and bone or muscle aches. In the past, this condition has been called (without justification) chronic Epstein-Barr virus infection, myalgic encephalomyelitis, “yuppie flu,” and chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome (CFIDS).


A medical condition characterized by profound exhaustion that persists for an extended duration, frequently spanning multiple years. This ailment primarily affects women in the age bracket of 25 to 45.


The etiology of this condition remains ambiguous. In certain instances, it manifests following a viral infection or in the aftermath of a distressing occurrence like the loss of a loved one. Conversely, in other scenarios, there is no identifiable antecedent illness or event.


The primary manifestation of chronic fatigue syndrome manifests as enduring fatigue. Additional indications exhibit variability, encompassing cognitive dysfunction characterized by diminished short-term memory and concentration, throat discomfort, sensitive lymph nodes, muscular and articular distress, muscular exhaustion, insufficiently rejuvenating sleep, and cephalalgia. Frequently, this condition co-occurs with psychological conditions such as depression or anxiety.


The absence of a definitive diagnostic test for chronic fatigue syndrome necessitates explorations primarily focused on eliminating alternative etiologies for the presented symptoms, such as anemia. A comprehensive evaluation encompassing physical examination, blood analyses, and psychological assessment is typically conducted. In the event that no underlying cause is identified, a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome can be established based on the symptomatic presentation.


Analgesic medications, commonly referred to as painkillers, or antidepressant agents can potentially alleviate the symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Complementary therapeutic modalities such as physiotherapy or psychotherapy may also offer beneficial outcomes. It is important to note that chronic fatigue syndrome is a protracted condition; however, in certain individuals, the symptoms may resolve over the course of several years.


A medical condition characterized by profound and persistent fatigue lasting for an extended duration, often spanning multiple years. This condition primarily affects women in the age group of 25 to 45 years.


The etiology of this condition remains uncertain. In certain instances, it emerges following a viral infection or in the aftermath of a stressful event, such as bereavement. However, there are cases where no preceding illness or significant event is identified.


Chronic fatigue syndrome is primarily characterized by enduring exhaustion as its central symptom. The array of accompanying symptoms tends to vary, but frequently encompasses issues such as impaired short-term memory or concentration, a persistent sore throat, tender lymph nodes, muscle and joint discomfort, muscle fatigue, sleep that does not provide adequate refreshment, and recurring headaches. Furthermore, this disorder frequently co-occurs with comorbid conditions such as depression or anxiety.


The absence of a specific diagnostic test for chronic fatigue syndrome necessitates investigations primarily focused on ruling out alternative potential causes of the symptoms, such as anemia. This typically involves a comprehensive assessment including a physical examination, blood tests, and a psychological evaluation. If no underlying cause is identified, a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome can be established based on the symptomatology alone.


The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome can be alleviated through the use of analgesic drugs (commonly known as painkillers) or antidepressant medications. Additional therapeutic approaches such as physiotherapy or psychotherapy can also provide beneficial effects. It is important to note that chronic fatigue syndrome is a persistent condition, but in certain individuals, the symptoms may gradually improve and eventually resolve after several years.


 


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