Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterised by:

• severe, disabling fatigue and other symptoms including
• sleep disturbance,
• impaired concentration,
• headaches musculoskeletal pain
• It has been shown that the function of the brain is affected in the disorder.

It is more prevalent in women than men and may have a hormonal component.  Some women with CFS have cyclical symptoms with increased problems before their periods mimicking PMS.

It is a common condition affecting 0.2-3% of the population depending on the assessment criteria used.

Typically, there is significant fatigue for more than six months usually following an episode of stress, injury or infection.

There is no specific diagnostic test.

Treatment

Some women with CFS have relatively low oestrogen levels although so far an evaluation of oestrogen supplementation has yet to be provided.

There has also been a suggestion that androgen supplementation may find a role in treatment.

Antidepressants may help depression, insomnia and muscle pain.

Steroids, magnesium injections and oil of evening primrose treatments do not seem to be of significant benefit.

There is some evidence that an exercise programme may be beneficial.

Many patients with CFS slowly improve with time although others do not.

There is still a lot to be studied but the condition is gradually receiving clinical recognition.

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