Whats cfs?

Are you feeling overwhelmingly fatigued lately? Can’t seem to muster up enough energy to go about your daily activities? Well, you’re not alone. Many people around the world suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Despite it being a common condition, there isn’t much known about CFS.

CFS: A Vague Definition

When it comes to defining what CFS is, medical professionals might as well be playing charades because they don’t have any concrete answers yet. Doctors define it as a long-term illness characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts for six months or more (1).

Still unsure if you have the infamous ‘fatigue’ every student dreads when exams are approaching (we know we played hooky way too often in our university years)? Here are some more warning signs:

Warning Signs of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:

  • Muscle pain
  • Unrefreshing sleep
  • Impaired concentration
  • Headaches
  • Joint pain

If you identify with over three of these symptoms above and suspect severe exhaustion beyond weariness when waking up every day – then congratulations! You might just have joined our unfortunate club!

Who Gets It?

It affects men and women alike but it’s most commonly found in women aged between 35–45 years old (why do we always get all the weird conditions). Studies indicate higher odds for folks who were previously victims of arthritis or infections like mononucleosis (never kissed anyone outside without protection again–thanks Dracula).

People diagnosed with fibromyalgia also stand an increased chance of experiencing chronic fatigue syndromes. There seems to be no evidence linking this diagnosis with depression (2).

Diagnosis Dilemma

Sadly, one can’t determine if they are experiencing signs until about six months after the initial symptoms occurred. There is no single test to diagnose someone with chronic fatigue syndrome, and healthcare professionals’ best bet is to conduct a series of elimination tests. But for fellow hypochondriacs like us–hang in there!

Here are some steps that doctors take trying to zero down on what might be plaguing you:

  • A full medical examination
  • Blood/ urine sample testing
  • Scans or X-rays

Small mention: We know what it’s like waiting for the results of your latest biopsy while any non-medico friends look at you consolingly saying “it’ll turn out fine”. Spoiler alert – this sucks too.

Treatment Options

There’s no definitive cure as yet –but don’t let despair get the best of you! Various management options usually include medication for pain relief and diet changes (3).

Additionally, people often incorporate yoga or meditation into their daily routine–we say anything from goat yoga (including mini goats jumping all over our backs) to transcendental practices (“omm-ing” included) will do!

Get Help!

If these symptoms sound familiar and have been persisting longer than six months without better explanations –CFS may be worth visiting a doctor about (no PTO days? Time off work needed? Another excuse not to face reality?).

Don’t ignore how challenging feeling continually fatigued can make life feel day today (our Netflix accounts being proof) –reach out if help seems necessary.

References:
1. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome linked to imbalanced microbiome
2. Central sensitivity syndromes: An Overview
3. Best Practices For Integrative Pain Management

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