Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is also known as Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS), and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). It is a multiple-symptom disorder characterized by profound fatigue, muscle and joint pain and a variety of other symptoms.

People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome show abnormalities in the immune, neurological, endocrine and other systems. The exhaustion a person feels with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not the same as the fatigue a healthy person feels from over-exertion. Studies indicate that people with severe Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have a functional level that is significantly lower than that of someone with heart disease or multiple sclerosis, or undergoing chemotherapy for cancer.

What Causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

According to research studies, genetic predisposition makes some people more susceptible to developing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. However, based on studies of identical twins, other research indicates that genetic predisposition is not the only factor. Other important issues are lifestyle and the total accumulated load of microbes and toxins in the body. (Most of us are exposed to toxins in the food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the products we use on a daily basis.)

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms often resemble a post-viral state and therefore recurring or chronic viruses are believed to contribute to the illness in many patients. Viruses that have been associated with the condition include:

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV, which causes infectious mononucleosis)
• Human herpes virus 6 (HHV-6)
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
• Coxsackie viruses B1 and B4

Once you have had a pathogenic virus it can be reactivated when your immunity is low, or by adverse environmental conditions, and trigger or perpetrate chronic fatigue and other illnesses. Infections that precede Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may also cause the illness.

How is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Diagnosed?

In order to meet the diagnostic criteria of the 1994 CDC guidelines, a patient must have:

1. Severe, unexplained, persistent or relapsing fatigue that has an identifiable onset (not lifelong), that is not alleviated by rest and results in a substantial reduction in previous levels of daily activities and

2. Co-existing occurrence of four or more of the following symptoms:

• Impaired memory or concentrationTender cervical or axillary lymph nodes
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches or pain
• Multiple-joint pain without swelling or redness
• Headaches of a new type or intensity
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours

These symptoms must have persisted or recurred during six or more consecutive months and must not have predated the fatigue.

Unfortunately, the diagnosis ignores the systemic nature of the illness and offers no clues to the underlying cause. While the CDC guidelines have been helpful in diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, research has shown that people with disabling fatigue who don't fit the criteria have the same immunologic changes and responses to treatment as those who do.

Other Common Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Initial symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome often feel similar to the flu. In addition to profound fatigue, CFS symptoms include exercise intolerance, and low-grade fever. Symptoms can either be continual or can come and go.

Other Conditions/Illnesses Often Associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is often associated with other conditions/illnesses including.

• Cancer
• Carpel tunnel syndrome
• Diabetes or hypoglycemia
• Dry mouth
• Fibromyalgia
• Gulf War syndrome
• Heavy metal toxicity
• Hidden food allergies
• HIV/AIDS
• Hypothyroidism
• Irritable bladder or Irritable bowel syndrome
• Lyme disease
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Oxidative stress
• Sleep disturbances
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Systemic lupus
• Yeast, parasites and/or other intestinal infections

An individual holistic approach, along with avoiding over-exertion and exposure to substances that trigger reactions, has been the most effective treatment to date. If you think you have CFS, see a natural-minded doctor who understands root causes.

An individual holistic approach, along with avoiding exposure to substances that trigger reactions (foods, fumes, toxic chemicals, etc.) has been the most effective treatment to date. If you think you have FMS, see a natural-minded doctor who understands root causes.

Who is at Risk for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Although Chronic Fatigue Syndrome strikes mostly adults (about the same number of men and women), adolescents and children can also be affected. Approximately 800,000 people in the U.S. suffer from the illness.

NOTE: These statements are meant for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as a substitute for appropriate medical advice or treatment. FCI offers support as an adjunct to, but not a substitute for, professional health care. Any attempt to diagnose or treat illness should come under the direction of a healthcare professional.