Introduction

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) causes persistent fatigue (exhaustion) that affects everyday life and doesn't go away with sleep or rest.

CFS is also known as ME, which stands for myalgic encephalomyelitis. There's some debate over the correct term to use for the condition, but these pages will refer to the condition asCFS.

CFS is a serious condition that can cause long-term illness and disability, but many people particularly children and young people improve over time.

Who is affected?

It's estimated around250,000 people in the UK have CFS.

Anyone can get the condition, although it's more common in women than men.

It usually develops when people arein their early20s to mid-40s. Children can also be affected, usually between the ages of 13 and 15.

Howit affects quality of life

Most cases of CFS are mild or moderate, but up to one in four people with CFS have severe symptoms. These are defined as follows:

  • mild you're able to care for yourself, but may need days off work to rest
  • moderate you may have reduced mobility, and your symptoms can vary; you may also have disturbed sleep patterns and need to sleep in the afternoon
  • severe you're able to carry out minimal daily tasks, such as brushing your teeth, but have significantly reduced mobility, and may also have difficulty concentrating

Various theories have been suggested, including:

  • a viral or bacterial infection
  • problems with the immune system
  • an imbalance of hormones
  • psychiatric problems, such as stress and emotional trauma

Some people are thought to be more susceptible to the condition because of their genes, as the condition is more common in some families.

More research is needed to confirm exactly what causes the condition.

Everyone with CFS responds to treatment differently, so your treatment plan will be tailored to you.

Some of the main treatments include:

  • cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
  • a structured exercise programme called graded exercise therapy
  • medication to control pain, nausea and sleeping problems

Most people with CFS improve over time, although some people don't make a full recovery. It's also likely therewill be periods when symptoms get better or worse. Children and young people with CFS are more likely to recover fully.

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Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 17 Jan 2017