Chronic Fatigue

What is ME/CFS?

ME/CFS stands for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It's a long-term health condition that makes you feel extremely tired all the time. This isn't just feeling a bit tired after a busy day - it's feeling exhausted even after rest, and it doesn't get better with sleep.

The condition can affect anyone, including children and teenagers. We don't know what causes ME/CFS, but it's a real medical condition that can seriously impact daily life.

Main Signs and Symptoms

There are four main symptoms that doctors look for:

1. Extreme tiredness (fatigue) This goes far beyond normal tiredness. Simple tasks like having a shower, getting dressed, or going to work or school can feel overwhelming. You might feel like you have no energy left, even first thing in the morning.

2. Sleep problems You might find it hard to fall asleep, wake up many times during the night, or sleep for very long periods but still feel exhausted. Even after a full night's sleep, you may wake up feeling like you haven't slept at all.

3. Problems with thinking and memory This is sometimes called "brain fog." You might find it hard to concentrate, remember things, or think clearly. Simple mental tasks that used to be easy can become difficult.

4. Feeling worse after activity This is called post-exertional malaise (PEM). After physical or mental activity, your symptoms get much worse. This can last for days or even weeks. Even small activities like a short walk or having a conversation might trigger this.

Other possible symptoms include:

• Pain in muscles, joints, or different parts of your body
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Feeling feverish
• Dizziness
• Feeling sick

Getting a Diagnosis

There's no single test for ME/CFS. Your GP will need to:

• Ask about your symptoms and how long you've had them
• Look at your medical history
• Do blood and urine tests to rule out other conditions
• Make sure your symptoms aren't caused by something else

Because ME/CFS symptoms are similar to many other illnesses, diagnosis can take time. Your GP might consider ME/CFS if you don't get better as quickly as expected from what seems like a common illness.

Treatment Options

While there's no cure for ME/CFS, treatments can help manage symptoms:

• Energy management: Learning how to use your energy wisely without making symptoms worse
• Talking therapy: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) might help you cope with the condition
• Medicine: Your GP might prescribe medication for pain or sleep problems

Living with ME/CFS

Having ME/CFS means making big changes to your daily routine. You'll need to plan activities carefully and rest regularly. Symptoms can get better or worse over time.

The condition can affect your mental health too. It's normal to feel frustrated, sad, or worried. Support from family, friends, and support groups can help.

When to speak to your GP

Speak to your GP if you have extreme tiredness that doesn't get better with rest, especially if you also have sleep problems, difficulty thinking clearly, or feel worse after activity.

---

Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.