Chronic fatigue - Vitality Clinic

Chronic fatigue is a complex medical condition characterized by extreme and persistent tiredness, fatigue, or exhaustion that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other medical conditions. Some key features of chronic fatigue include:

• The fatigue lasts for 6 months or longer and is either new or has a clear start linked to an illness or event
• The fatigue significantly interferes with daily activities and work/school performance
• The fatigue does not improve much with rest and may get worse after physical or mental activity
• The fatigue causes stress and disability in personal, work, and social lives

Some common symptoms beyond fatigue can include:

• Cognitive dysfunction like poor concentration or memory
• Unrefreshing sleep or insomnia
• Muscle or joint pain
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Tender lymph nodes

There are a few potential causes still being investigated:

• Infection with Epstein-Barr virus or other viruses
• Immune system dysfunction
• Stress
• Genetic predisposition

Two major classifications falling under the chronic fatigue umbrella are:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) - More specific criteria including 6 months fatigue, 4 concurrent symptoms, and no alternative explanation
• Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) - Showing CFS symptoms plus inflammation of brain and spinal cord

Diagnosis involves ruling out other diseases first through exam, lab tests, imaging scans to meet criteria. Treatment aims to manage symptoms through pacing daily activities, psychotherapy, medication, exercise. Full recovery is rare, but keeping a positive mindset and properly caring for one's body can help prevent deterioration.