Myalgic encephalomyelitis
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) causes persistent fatigue (exhaustion) that affects everyday life and doesn't go away with sleep or rest.
CFS is also known as ME, which stands for myalgic encephalomyelitis. There's some debate over the correct term to use for the condition, but these pages will refer to the condition asCFS.
CFS is a serious condition that can cause long-term illness and disability, but many people particularly children and young people improve over time.
It's estimated around250,000 people in the UK have CFS.
Anyone can get the condition, although it's more common in women than men.
It usually develops when people arein their early20s to mid-40s. Children can also be affected, usually between the ages of 13 and 15.
Most cases of CFS are mild or moderate, but up to one in four people with CFS have severe symptoms. These are defined as follows:
Various theories have been suggested, including:
Some people are thought to be more susceptible to the condition because of their genes, as the condition is more common in some families.
More research is needed to confirm exactly what causes the condition.
Everyone with CFS responds to treatment differently, so your treatment plan will be tailored to you.
Some of the main treatments include:
Most people with CFS improve over time, although some people don't make a full recovery. It's also likely therewill be periods when symptoms get better or worse. Children and young people with CFS are more likely to recover fully.
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Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) causes persistent fatigue (exhaustion) that affects everyday life and doesn't go away with sleep or rest.
The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) vary from person to person. There are often periods when they are better or worse.
Exactly what causes chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is unknown, but there are several theories.
There is no test for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), but there are clear guidelines to help doctors diagnose it.
There is no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), but treatments can help relieve the symptoms.