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What is chronic fatigue?
Chronic fatigue is a complex medical condition characterized by extreme, debilitating tiredness that lasts for 6 months or longer and does not improve with rest. The key symptoms include:
- Profound fatigue that is not relieved by sleep and rest
- Loss of memory and concentration
- Sore throat
- Tender lymph nodes
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headaches
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours after physical or mental activity
The exact causes of chronic fatigue are not known. Current theories center around:
- Viral infections
- Immune system abnormalities
- Stress
- Changes in hormone levels
Some potential risk factors include:
- Viral illnesses like mononucleosis
- Stressful life events
- Depression and anxiety
- Being female
- Genetics
Chronic fatigue can be confusing to diagnose because many conditions cause similar symptoms. Your doctor will likely run various medical tests to help rule out other issues, such as:
- Blood tests
- Sleep studies
- Imaging scans
There are currently no definitive diagnostic lab tests or biomarkers for chronic fatigue syndrome. Diagnosis involves evaluating symptoms, ruling out other causes, and ensuring symptoms have persisted long enough.
Treatments aim to ease symptoms. Lifestyle changes, stress management, gentle exercise programs, and medications can potentially help relieve discomfort. Though challenging, some patients gradually improve over time. Support groups and therapy assist in coping with the life impacts of chronic fatigue.
In summary, chronic fatigue syndrome is a complicated disorder characterized by incapacitating exhaustion, pain, and additional systemic complaints lasting at least 6 months. The exact mechanisms behind onset remain unknown. Diagnosis involves excluding other possible illnesses first. Management focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life given the limited treatment options currently available.