Chronic fatigue syndrome Dr Rob Hicks Many of us feel tired every now and again, but for some people their tiredness is debilitating. We look at the causes and the symptoms that lead to a diagnosis of chronic fatigue, sometimes also known as ME.

In this article

What is it? What are the symptoms?

Can it be prevented? What's the treatment?

Advice and support

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterised by prolonged fatigue associated with a wide range of accompanying symptoms. It has also been called post-viral fatigue syndrome, myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or chronic fatigue.

CFS can affect people of any age. However, it's most common between the ages of 25 and 45. It's estimated that about 150,000 people in the UK have CFS, with women affected more often than men.

To be diagnosed with CFS an adult must have severe chronic fatigue for at least four months with no other medical condition identified as the cause. They must also have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Substantial impairment in short-term memory or concentration
• Sore throat
• Tender lymph nodes
• Muscle pain
• Multi-joint pain without swelling or redness
• Headaches of a new type, pattern or severity
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours

Other symptoms that may occur include:

• Abdominal pain
• Alcohol intolerance
• Bloating
• Chest pain
• Chronic cough
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Dry eyes or mouth
• Earaches
• Irregular heartbeat
• Jaw pain
• Morning stiffness
• Nausea
• Night sweats
• Psychological problems, such as depression, irritability, anxiety, panic attacks
• Shortness of breath
• Skin sensations
• Tingling sensations
• Weight loss

In general, the symptoms of CFS aren't improved by bed rest and may be worsened by physical or mental activity.

Since it's not known what causes CFS, it's difficult to prevent. There's no evidence to support the view that CFS is a contagious disease and there's no precise identified cause.

It's believed that a person’s genes may make them more susceptible, and that viral infection, stress, depression, or a major life event (for example bereavement, job loss) may act as triggers for CFS to develop in susceptible individuals.

There's no specific treatment for CFS either. However, medicines can be prescribed to relieve the symptoms: for example, painkillers may be given for muscle pains and headaches, and antidepressants for depression.

Behaviour therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, counselling, relaxation therapy, and graded exercise may help. Reducing stress, eating a healthy diet, rest periods, pacing and support groups also help many people with CFS.

Action for ME

Tel: 0845 123 2314
Website: www.afme.org.uk

Association of Young People with ME

Helpline: 0845 123 2389
Website: www.ayme.org.uk

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Rob Hicks in February 2008