CFS

Friends, have you ever heard about a term called CFS? Until a few days back, I was also unaware of this. On finding out I learned that it is a short form for a disorder called CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME. CFS is a complicated disorder, which causes extreme fatigue that lasts for at least six months. Symptoms worsen with physical or mental activity but do not fully improve with rest. In medical terms it is called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

The cause of CFS is unknown, although there are many theories. Experts believe a combination of factors might trigger it. There is no single test to confirm a diagnosis. One may need a variety of medical tests to rule out other health problems that have similar symptoms. Treatment for the condition focuses on easing symptoms.

Symptoms

They can vary from person to person, and the severity of symptoms can fluctuate from day to day. In addition to fatigue, symptoms may include:

• Extreme exhaustion after physical or mental exercise.
• Problems with memory or thinking skills.
• Dizziness that worsens with moving from lying down or sitting to standing.
• Muscle or joint pain.
• Un refreshing sleep.

Some people with this condition have headaches, sore throats, and tender lymph nodes in neck or armpits. People with the condition also may become extra sensitive to light, sound, smells, food and medicines.

Fatigue can be symptom of many illnesses, se your doctor if you have persistent or excessive fatigue.

Causes

The cause of CFS is still unknown. A combination of factors may be involved, including:

• Genetics– CFS appear to run in some families, so many people may be born with a higher likelihood of developing this disorder.
• Infections– Some people develop symptoms after getting better from viral or bacterial infection.
• Physical or emotional trauma– Some people report that they experienced an injury, surgery or significant emotional stress shortly before their symptoms for CFA began.
• Problems with energy use– Some people with CFS have problems converting the body’s fuel, primarily fats and sugars, into energy.

Risk factors

Factors that may increase your risk of CFS include:

• Age– CFS can occur at any age, but it is most commonly affects young to middle-aged adults.
• Sex– Women are diagnosed with CFS more often than men, but it may be that women are simply more likely to report their symptoms to a doctor.
• Other medical problems– People who have history of other complex medical problems such as fibromyalgia or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, may be more likely to develop CFS.

Complications

Symptoms of CFS can come and go, and often are triggered by physical activity or emotional stress. This can make it difficult for people to maintain a regular work schedule or to even take care of themselves at home. Many people may be too weak to get out of bed at different points during their illness. Some may need to use a wheelchair.

Treatment

As of today, there is no single, definitive cure for CFS, but the latest treatment approaches focus on managing symptoms through activity management (pacing) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication to address specific symptoms like pain or sleep disturbances, with the primary goal being to balance rest and activity to avoid symptom flare-ups.

Key aspects of current CFS treatment include:

• Pacing– Carefully balancing activity levels with rest periods to prevent post-exertional malaise (PEM),a common symptom where symptoms worsen after exertion.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- A form of psychotherapy that helps individuals manage their thoughts related to CFS, improving coping mechanisms and overall quality of life.
• Medication for symptom relief– Depending on individual needs, medications might include pain relievers, low-dose anti-depressants to manage sleep issues, or medications for specific symptoms like dizziness or low blood pressure.
• Graded Exercise Therapy– A supervised exercise program designed to gradually increase physical activity levels while monitoring for symptoms exacerbation (flare-ups).

Import points to remember are- No single treatment works for everyone, early diagnosis and management are key factors, and finally research is going on to find a suitable treatment for CFS.

Waiting for your feedback on this blog.

Anil Malik

Mumbai, India

12^th February 2025