The severity of symptoms varies, so the diagnosis may range from mild CFS to severe CFS as follows: In children, the diagnosis can be made after 3 months. If you are experiencing these symptoms, your doctor may use more detailed and accurate criteria based on a CFS diagnostic questionnaire to confirm the diagnosis. Four or more of the other symptoms listed above in the symptoms section that were not experienced before the fatigue started.The fatigue is not lifelong or the result of ongoing exertion, and is not much relieved by rest. Severe chronic fatigue lasting 6 months or longer, with other medical conditions ruled out by clinical diagnosis.For a diagnosis of CFS the symptoms must match both of the following criteria: How is chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosed?ĭiagnosis can be difficult because the symptoms of CFS are similar to those of a number of other medical conditions, which need to be ruled out first.

The severity of symptoms can vary from day to day, or even within a day. Some people also report a range of other symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bloating, diarrhoea, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, jaw pain, night sweats, increased sensitivity to alcohol or medication, chronic cough, dizzy spells or dry eyes.

tiredness that can last for more than 24 hours after physical or mental effort.

headaches of a new type, pattern or severity.multiple joint pain without joint swelling or redness.CFS-associated fatigue can be debilitating and does not readily get better with rest. People with CFS experience overwhelming physical and mental fatigue (tiredness). This is different to the tiredness that well people experience after strenuous exercise or a day's work. What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome? Other factors that may contribute include: Some people experience ongoing effects of COVID-19 infection, known as long COVID, which are very similar to the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.

It is likely that the potential for getting CFS is genetic and runs in families. There are changes in the immune system and body chemistry.ĬFS is usually triggered by a viral infection, such as glandular fever or influenza, but any infection may be the trigger. The cause of CFS is not yet fully understood, but it is likely that several factors contribute to its development.

There are self-care steps you can take to help you manage this condition, such as reducing stress, getting support, taking care not to over-exercise, improving your sleep and making sure your diet is balanced with plenty of good nutrients.

There is no specific treatment for this condition.

CFS can be difficult to diagnose, and other conditions must be ruled out before a diagnosis is made based on specific diagnostic criteria.

Symptoms are usually made worse by over-exercise. Other symptoms include musculoskeletal pain, sleep disturbance, poor concentration and headaches.

CFS is characterised by severe, disabling fatigue.

In New Zealand, there are an estimated 16,000–20,000 people with chronic fatigue syndrome. It can affect people of all ages, ethnic and socio-economic groups, although women are more likely than men to develop this condition.

What support is available with chronic fatigue syndrome?.

What is the outlook for someone with chronic fatigue syndrome?.How can I care for myself with chronic fatigue syndrome?.What is the treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome?.How is chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosed?.What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?.On this page, you can find the following information: People with CFS experience extreme tiredness that doesn't go away with rest and can’t be explained by other causes. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex illness that affects many systems of your body, particularly the nervous and immune systems.

What is a cfs