What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Although there is not a lot known about this debilitating condition affecting thousands of adults in the United States, the signs and symptoms seem to be fairly universal for patients with Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, more commonly known as just Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. For most patients, symptoms seem to come on suddenly; however, there are a few who see a slower, more gradual progression of the disease.

Many patients begin to develop Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in the Winter months after dealing with some sort of a flu type illness. For others, symptoms of the disease being to manifest themselves after a prolonged experience that is extremely stressful or a traumatic episode in their lives. Some studies have suggested that symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome began to develop in patients after receiving a vaccine or blood transfusion; however, there is not enough known about this as of yet. So if there are symptoms that may seem to be an issue of concern for you, speak with your doctor.

The onset of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is characterized, first and foremost, by a profound, reoccurring, overwhelming sense of fatigue which interferes with your ability to maintain a level of activity that had, otherwise, been normal for you. Along with this physical fatigue, a lack of mental focus and trouble with short term memory are also present. This fatigue is not alleviated by sleep, in fact, many patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have insomnia or other problems with sleep that prevents them from having a true restful night of sleep.

In addition to this debilitating exhaustion, patients will often experience widespread pain in their joints and muscles. Additionally, people with this disease also have sore throats, tenderness in the lymph nodes, and abdominal pain. Other symptoms can also include the body loosing its ability to regulate temperature,light headedness, nausea, intolerance to standing for long periods of time, heart palpitations, and reoccurring flu like symptoms.

Only a health care professional can properly diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. If you feel that your or a loved one may be suffering from these symptoms it is important to consult your health care provider for a proper diagnosis.