Fatigue or a feeling of exhaustion is common, especially among people who do physical labour throughout the day or are undergoing mental burnout. Research suggests most adults experience fatigue at some point in time, with the majority of the cases being harmless. However, in certain cases, fatigue may be severe and long-lasting. This is called Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME).
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome In Middle-Aged Women
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Priti Shanker, General Physician, Apollo Clinic, Indiranagar, says that CFS is more prevalent among women than men. She notes that the condition affects 10–15% of middle-aged women, attributed to the rise in stress and depression in this age group.
Also Read: Do You Feel Tired All The Time: Expert Lists Causes Of Extreme Fatigue
Describing CFS, she says it is characterised by “unexplainable exhaustion for over six months without any cause,” which can lead to symptoms such as lack of physical and mental stamina, aches and pains, sleep issues like unrefreshed sleep, and inactivity.
Adding further, Dr Anil Ramakrishna, Senior Consultant – Neurology, SPARSH Hospital, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, says that CFS can occur at any age but is more commonly observed in teenagers and middle-aged individuals, with a slightly higher prevalence in women, possibly due to hormonal variations.
“Despite its prevalence, the exact cause of CFS remains unknown, although genetic factors may play a role,” he tells the OnlyMyHealth team.
Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Unfortunately, there isn't a single test to confirm a CFS diagnosis. Instead, diagnosing CFS relies on recognising its hallmark symptoms, which persist for at least six months, says Dr Ramakrishnan.
He adds, “A thorough evaluation should be done to identify potential risk factors and underlying causes of CFS. This condition is characterised by extreme fatigue and tiredness, often accompanied by sleep disturbances and generalised body aches. Unlike typical fatigue, activities worsen symptoms, leaving individuals feeling increasingly fatigued, even after adequate rest."
In certain cases, symptoms can overlap with other health conditions, such as a sleep disorder, an underlying health problem like diabetes, anaemia, and an underactive thyroid, or mental health problems like depression and anxiety.
As per the 2015 Institute of Medicine (IOM) Diagnostic Criteria for CFS, here are the three main symptoms of CFS that can help identify the condition:
Fatigue that continues for more than six months and is associated with new-onset severe fatigue unrelated to exertion and not relieved by rest.
Post-exertional malaise, in which patients experience worsening symptoms after exposure to physical or cognitive stressors, which they previously well tolerated.
Unrefreshing sleep, in which patients feel tired after a night's sleep.
Also Read: 10 Signs of Emotional Exhaustion You Need to Know
Treatment Strategies
According to Dr Ramakrishnan, treatment strategies for CFS largely depend on self-care.
“Patients should be encouraged to learn relaxation techniques, such as yoga or breathing exercises, to reduce the symptoms and manage anxiety. Additionally, maintaining a balanced nutrition diet and incorporating gentle exercise routines, like short outdoor jogs, can help improve overall well-being,” he says.
Moreover, the support of the family plays a huge role if such a situation occurs. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe anti-anxiety or anti-depression medication to address accompanying symptoms.
“By raising awareness and understanding of chronic fatigue syndrome, individuals can recognise the signs and symptoms early, facilitating timely diagnosis and effective management. Through collaborative efforts between patients and healthcare providers, we can strive towards improved quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition,” the doctor concludes.