In today's busy world, feeling tired is common, but sometimes there is something much more serious behind ordinary fatigue. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is not just ordinary fatigue, but a complex disorder that requires detailed attention and understanding.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, is a serious and complex medical disorder characterised by chronic, intense fatigue. This fatigue is not a result of continuous activity and does not alleviate after rest, posing a significant obstacle to the daily functioning of those affected by the condition.
The statistics on CFS are alarming - it is estimated that it can affect between 0.2% and 2% of the population, with a higher prevalence among women. Although CFS can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged people.
CFS has long been a challenge in the medical world, partly due to the lack of clear biomarkers and varied symptoms. The disease is often confused with other conditions, making it difficult to diagnose quickly and accurately. Nevertheless, medical awareness and understanding of CFS has increased in recent years, contributing to better diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.
Recognition of symptoms
Although chronic, intense fatigue is the main and most recognisable symptom of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), it is accompanied by a number of other symptoms that together create a complex clinical picture of the condition.
- Chronic Fatigue: The primary and defining symptom of CFS is fatigue that lasts for at least six months, is new or markedly different from previously experienced fatigue and is not caused by continuous activity.
- Muscle and Joint Pain: Many people with CFS experience chronic muscle or joint pain that is not related to injury. These pains can be migratory and change in location and intensity.
- Concentration and Memory Problems: Often referred to as 'brain fog', these symptoms include difficulty concentrating, remembering new information and difficulty formulating thoughts.
- Sleep problems: Despite being tired all the time, people with CFS may have difficulty falling asleep, experience restless sleep or feel equally tired when they wake up.
- Physical Effort Intolerance: CFS is also characterised by a phenomenon known as postexertional malaise (PEM), which is a worsening of symptoms after minor physical or mental exertion.
- Additional Symptoms: Other symptoms may include headaches, sensitivity to light and sound, sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes and a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms.
Combating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a challenge that requires a comprehensive approach, combining both professional therapies and self-help strategies. In the absence of a specific treatment, the focus is on alleviating symptoms and improving patients' quality of life.
In medical treatment, cognitive behavioural therapy is important in helping patients understand and manage the impact of CFS on their lives. A similar role is played by acceptance and commitment therapy, which focuses on accepting the current situation and acting in accordance with the patient's personal values, even in the face of the limitations imposed by CFS.
A key aspect of managing CFS is effective energy management. Patients learn to plan activities to avoid overload and fatigue, which often means introducing regular activity breaks and fine-tuning the level of exertion to their capabilities.
Diet and nutrition play an important role in the overall management of CFS. Although there is no specific diet for people with CFS, healthy eating habits can help maintain overall health and alleviate some symptoms.
Exercise, tailored to the patient's individual ability and tolerance, can also be beneficial. It is important that patients avoid exhaustion by choosing gentle forms of activity such as yoga or walking.
Psychological and emotional support is invaluable in the lives of people with CFS. Individual or group therapy can help to manage the emotional challenges of the illness. Support groups also offer a valuable source of information, a sense of community and emotional support.
Educating patients and their families about CFS is equally important. Understanding the nature of the disease, its symptoms and treatment options can significantly improve the quality of life for those struggling with the condition.