Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Fatigue occurring after a hard day's work or constant exertion over a certain period of time is nothing unusual. But if an individual constantly experiences fatigue in normal circumstances as well, then there is a possibility that this person is suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

The causes of this syndrome have not been clearly identified. There are different opinions about what causes chronic fatigue syndrome. Research in this field has zeroed in the role of the immune, endocrine and nervous systems. At the onset of the phase, fatigue grips the person suddenly and it comes with an illness which resembles flu. Some cases are characterized by the person going through severe stress for a long period of time.

People with chronic fatigue syndrome may experience different symptoms which has no single pattern. But some generic and primary symptoms of this condition have been detected. The symptoms include the main component - fatigue.

Other symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are:

• Remarkable impairment in concentration or short-term memory
• Sore throat
• Tender lymph nodes
• Muscle pain
• Multi-joint pain
• Headache patterns never experienced before
• Sleep does not culminate into a rejuvenation
• The effect of a physical exertion lasting for more than a day.

Other symptoms that have been reported are chronic cough, chest pain, diarrhea, dizziness, balance problems or fainting, dry mouth, ear-ache and irregular heartbeat. In some cases, morning stiffness, nausea, jaw pain, chills, night sweats, psychological problems like depression, anxiety disorders, tingling sensations, visual disturbances and weight loss or weight gain have also been observed.

The fact that this disorder does not have any clear physical indicators, makes it even more complex. There cannot be 100% assurance that one of the underlined symptoms relate to chronic fatigue syndrome. The given symptoms can also occur in the case of any other disorders.

Diagnosis
This is a very difficult proposition in case of chronic fatigue syndrome. There are no medical tests to arrive at a conclusion that an individual is suffering from this syndrome. Case studies are helpful in getting to know the disorder better.

Treatment
Physiotherapy, dietary supplements, anti-depressants, alternative and complementary medicines are widely used for treating chronic fatigue. But, the only scientifically proven beneficial treatments are cognitive behavioral therapy and graded exercise therapy.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a psychological therapy which helps patients know their individual symptoms and come up with strategies to deal with them. It also works towards reducing the symptoms of fatigue. It is a fairly effective treatment for chronic fatigue disorder.

Graded Exercise Therapy: It is a form of physical therapy, comprising exercises to reduce the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome in patients.

This disorder can possibly be dealt with by indulging in hobbies that you are passionate about. Leading a healthy and stress-free lifestyle can be the solution to overcome chronic fatigue syndrome.