While many South Africans have not heard of chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome, it is a serious and fairly common medical condition that is extremely debilitating. Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Day is used to increase awareness about this condition, for which there is no known cause or cure.
As part of the Government Employees Medical Scheme's (GEMS) ongoing effort to educate our members and future members on a range of healthcare topics, we would like to explore certain important healthcare issues. This article looks at the subject of chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome this Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Day, 12 May 2012.
What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), which was once commonly known as ‘yuppie flu', does not just cause mild fatigue, as its name might suggest. Individuals with CFS suffer extreme exhaustion and develop a variety of symptoms that can make their day-to-day lives exceedingly challenging. The condition is not psychological or ‘all in the heads' of sufferers as many people once thought, scientists have established that CFS is a real medical condition.
CFS can affect anyone although it is most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 25 and 45 and in women of all ages, who make up about 80% of cases. There are a number of similar, overlapping conditions that are often associated with CFS and it is consequently difficult to diagnose. As a result we do not know how many people are affected by it in South Africa. However, it has been estimated to affect between 1% to 2% of the population in countries such as the USA and Australia.
What causes it?
As noted above, the causes of CFS remain largely unknown. It was once thought that a virus might be behind it, but recent research suggests that a variety of factors may cause it. These may include the contracting of a variety of viruses combined with stress, exposure to environmental toxins and a genetic predisposition. Most CFS patients also show features of depression although it is not clear whether the depression develops as a result of CFS or whether the CFS arises as result of the depression.
The symptoms of CFS
The most notable aspect of the condition is extreme fatigue, which patients will suffer from for six months or more. Sufferers may experience a wide variety of other symptoms as well including the following:
Progression
CFS often starts with flu-like symptoms such as pain in the joints, headache, sore throat and mild fever and fatigue. At this point many doctors mistake the condition for flu and CFS is not diagnosed. However, in the case of CFS the symptoms continue for far longer than one would expect from flu.
CFS may continue for months or even years. Patients may find they have difficulty concentrating and remembering. In severe cases they may lack the energy to go out, see their friends or even work. They can become increasingly isolated and run the risk of developing depression.
Treatment
While CFS cannot be cured and must run its course, many of the symptoms can be treated and doctors can help to improve the patient's quality of life. Symptoms including sleep disorders, nausea, pain, flu-like symptoms, depression and anxiety can be treated with medications. Supportive therapies such as counselling can teach people coping skills.
Visit your doctor
CFS is a real medical condition that can devastate lives. It is important that it is diagnosed so that the patient can be assisted and symptoms treated. Those individuals suffering from extreme fatigue and some of the symptoms described above for an extended period of time should therefore be sure to visit their doctor.
Sources:
1. The Virtual Medical Centre, www.virtualmedicalcentre.com/diseases.asp?did=79&title=Chronic-Fatigue-Syndrome
2. Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, www.cfids.org/about-cfids/default.asp
3. Medical Dictionary, http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/chronic+fatigue+immune+dysfunction+syndrome
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