"He strengthens those who are weak and tired." -Isaiah 40:29

In a season of extreme pressures to get all of our preparations done for Thanksgiving and Christmas, I felt it appropriate to bring up an illness which has as one of its symptoms severe fatigue. This illness is called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

CFS can come on suddenly or gradually, usually after an acute infection such as a cold, bronchitis, hepatitis or an intestinal bug. Sometimes it follows mononucleosis, or during a period of high stress. Symptoms typically include those similar to the flu - headache, tender lymph nodes, fatigue and weakness, muscle and joint aches, inability to concentrate. Although flu symptoms usually go away in a few days or weeks, CFS symptoms continue or recur frequently for more than six months. Some patients report the inability to perform simple tasks without experiencing severe exhaustion.

Diagnosing CFS is difficult because its symptoms mimic those found in other diseases. Physicians need to rule out other similar diseases such as multiple sclerosis and lupus before they can diagnose CFS. Research is still on-going as they puzzle out the interactions between the immune and central nervous systems.

Studies show that CFS occurs 2-4 times more often in females than males, but there the commonality ends. It is seen in people of all races, ages, and socioeconomic classes from several countries around the world. Diseases which look similar to the picture of CFS have been reported for more than a century.

While no specific CFS treatments exist, some success can be found in symptomatic treatment. Certain antidepressants, non-sedating antihistamines and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be helpful for various symptoms. It is important for people with CFS to pace themselves physically, emotionally and intellectually since too much stress can aggravate symptoms.

If you have had these symptoms and they won't go away, please contact your physician so diagnosis and treatment can be given. For further information on this illness, feel free to call me any time.