What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?
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Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex condition characterized by persistent and unexplained fatigue that is not alleviated by rest and is often exacerbated by physical or mental activity.
Key insights from the research papers include:
- CFS is defined by severe fatigue lasting longer than six months, accompanied by symptoms such as postexertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, impaired memory or concentration, muscle pain, joint pain, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, and new types of headaches.
- The onset of CFS is often sudden and may follow a flu-like illness, suggesting an immunogenic etiology that could involve infections, immune dysfunction, or an autoimmune response to adjuvants.
- Immunological abnormalities in CFS patients may include altered cytokine profiles, decreased natural killer cell function, presence of autoantibodies, and abnormal T cell responses.
- A significant proportion of CFS patients report allergies, which may coexist with the syndrome, indicating a possible link between atopic conditions and CFS.
- Some evidence suggests that CFS may be associated with inflammation and pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as potential viral persistence and inadequate viral containment.
- Neurocognitive impairments, sleep quality disturbances, and somatic symptoms such as recurrent sore throat, muscle aches, and headaches are characteristic of CFS .
- No definitive link between infections and CFS has been established, but there is evidence of immune system activation and central nervous system involvement .
- Autonomic nervous system disturbances have been reported in CFS, which may contribute to the complex symptomatology of the condition.
In conclusion, chronic fatigue syndrome is a multifaceted disorder with a primary symptom of persistent fatigue that is not improved by rest. Accompanying symptoms include a range of physical and cognitive impairments, with evidence pointing towards immunological abnormalities, potential viral involvement, and autonomic nervous system disturbances. The exact pathogenesis remains unclear, and diagnosis is based on symptom presentation and the exclusion of other medical conditions.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
1
Chronic fatigue syndrome: diagnosis and treatment.
1
109 Citations
2012