Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complicated disease that is characterized by the extreme fatigue which may get worst with physical or mental activities. It may be related to some previous infections. The chronic fatigue may exist for 6 months which is accompanied by the significant problems such as short-term concentration and memory, tender lymph nodes, sore throat, headache and muscle pain. This disorder is more common in women than men and most commonly found in young to middle-aged adults.
The exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is not clear. However, this condition is supposed to be related to infection affecting the immune system. Some of the possible causes of this disorder are depression, hypoglycemia, iron deficiency anemia, history of allergies, viral infections such as Epstein-Barr or human herpes virus 6, hormonal changes in pituitary glands, hypothalamus or adrenal glands and dysfunction in the immune system.
The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are similar to common viral infections. The people suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome experience persistent fatigue that may last more than 6 months. In addition to that, other symptoms are loss of memory, painful and slightly enlarged lymph nodes in neck or armpits, sore throat, muscle soreness, headache of new pattern, type or severity, sleep disturbances and extreme exhaustion that lasts longer than 24 hours. Besides this, people with chronic fatigue syndrome note other symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, chest pain, allergies to alcohols, foods, chemicals and odors, chronic cough, diarrhea, irregular heartbeats, nausea, morning stiffness and jaw pain. They may face some psychological problems such as irritability, depression, panic attacks and anxiety disorders.
The diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome is based on certain signs and symptoms, non-specific laboratory tests such as blood tests such as liver and thyroid function tests, ESR and antibody tests. The doctors also suggest MRI or CT scan of the brain. This disorder can be treated using a combination of treatments such as moderating daily activities, steady exercise, cognitive behavior therapy, treatment of depression, treatment of existing pain, treatment of allergy-like symptoms and low blood pressure.
