USA: John Hopkins Medicine: Chronic fatigue syndrome

[Sly Saint]

What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by profound tiredness, regardless of bed rest. Its symptoms may worsen with physical or mental activity. CFS can happen suddenly and last for years. The condition affects more females than males.

What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Symptoms of CFS often mimic the flu. The following are the most common symptoms of CFS. However, each person may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• Sensitivity to light
• Headache
• Tender lymph nodes
• Fatigue and weakness
• Muscle and joint pain
• Inability to concentrate
• Insomnia
• Forgetfulness
• Mood swings
• Confusion
• Low-grade fever
• Depression

How is chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosed?
CFS diagnosis depends on two criteria:

1. Severity and duration. The severe and chronic tiredness lasts for more than 6 months and other medical conditions have been ruled out.
2. Number of symptoms. Four or more symptoms of CFS are present.

A specific treatment for CFS has yet to be proven effective. Vitamin supplements and medicines have some benefit. Many treatments just relieve the symptoms of CFS.

Treatment may include:

• Medicine, including corticosteroids, antidepressants, and others
• Light-intensity aerobic exercise (but avoid moderate to vigorously intense physical activity)
• Dietary supplements and herbal preparations
• Psychotherapy and supportive counseling

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-fatigue-syndrome

 

[Trish]

Oh dear.
Profound tiredness, diagnosis by any random 4 symptoms from the list, no mention of PEM, treatment with aerobic exercise, corticosteroids, antidepressants....
Sounds like it hasn't been updated since the 1990's.

 

[Sly Saint]

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