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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
This problem gained substantial notoriety throughout the 1980's. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or CFS, has yet to be fully understood (and in some cases, accepted) as a disease process. This clinical entity has also been referred to as Epstein-Barr virus infection syndrome. A number of different theories have been extended in the scientific community to explain CFS:
1. Immune system derangement
2. Depression
3. Aftermath of a viral infection (Epstein-Barr)
It has been estimated that 200,000 people may suffer from this illness. Females are affected much more frequently than males, and most cases occur in the 20-30 year age group. Common symptoms include fatigue, mild fever or chills, sore throat, tender lymph nodes (neck, armpits, and groin), muscle weakness, muscle pain, headache, sleep difficulty, and mental confusion. The diagnosis is difficult to make, for many other diseases can prompt these same symptoms. There are no special tests for CFS at this time. Other causes that could be responsible for this multitude of symptoms must first be ruled out. CFS has a typical waxing and waning course, and to date, it is not associated with increased mortality. There still is no known treatment for this syndrome. Your doctor can help you with the evaluation of this new and complex medical problem.
Hope this article will provide you information about chronic fatigue syndrome.
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