Feeling tired all the time is common for many people, especially for those with a busy lifestyle. But if you find yourself constantly exhausted no matter how much rest you get, you may be dealing with more than just everyday fatigue.
An estimated 836,000 to 2.5 million Americans have myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Though symptoms of fatigue rarely result in a diagnosis of CFS, symptoms related to fatigue are common and worth discussing. So, it may be helpful to learn about what CFS is and what it is not. From symptoms and causes to treatment, here's what you need to know about CFS and how you can use testing guidance from your healthcare provider to investigate symptoms.
What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
CFS is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts for at least six months and does not improve with rest. The fatigue associated with CFS may worsen with physical or mental activity and is not caused by an underlying medical condition.
What are symptoms that may indicate chronic fatigue syndrome?
The main symptom of CFS is profound and persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is more severe than just feeling tired from lack of sleep or overexertion. The fatigue associated with CFS is so significant that it interferes with normal activities and work and can cause additional symptoms like muscle and joint pain, headaches, sore throat, tender lymph nodes and difficulty concentrating or remembering things.
Symptoms may worsen after physical or mental exertion. Sleep often does not feel restful for those with CFS, and they frequently struggle with poor quality sleep despite their fatigue.
Consider Labcorp OnDemand’s Fatigue Test as a helpful starting point to begin investigating your symptoms.
What is the main cause of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Though the specific cause of CFS is unknown, research suggests that a combination of genetics, environmental exposures and viral illness may all play a role. Some researchers are examining the potential link between long COVID and CFS since the symptoms associated with each are similar.
How is chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosed?
Because there is no diagnostic test for CFS, providers typically refer to it as a “diagnosis of exclusion,” meaning other more likely and more common causes of chronic fatigue need to be considered and evaluated before a potential diagnosis of CFS. Iron deficiency, anemia, thyroid disorders, diabetes, electrolyte imbalances and problems with kidney or liver function are all more common potential causes for fatigue that can be evaluated with lab testing. Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can also contribute to symptoms of fatigue and should not be overlooked.
If you have prolonged, unexplained fatigue that fits the description of CFS, talk to your healthcare provider or start gathering information by purchasing a Labcorp OnDemand Fatigue Test today. Keeping a diary of your symptoms and their severity can be a helpful way to share information with your provider.
What is the treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome?
There is no cure or approved treatment for CFS. However, the good news is that lifestyle adjustments, stress management, gentle exercise, counseling support and nutrition changes can be helpful to manage CFS symptoms. Although it may take some trial and error, many people find relief through complementary therapies like meditation and by pacing their activities.
While the causes of CFS are still unclear, there are treatments available to help manage symptoms. With the right approach, many people with CFS identify strategies to improve their quality of life.
