Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a debilitating and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and that may be worsened by physical or mental activity. Symptoms affect several body systems and may include weakness, muscle pain, impaired memory and/or mental concentration, and insomnia, which can result in reduced participation in daily activities. (http://www.cdc.gov/cfs/)

No one knows what causes CFS. It is most common in women in their 40s and 50s, but anyone can have it. It can last for years. There is no cure for CFS, so the goal of treatment is to improve symptoms. Medicine may treat pain, sleep disorders, and other problems. Lifestyle changes, coping techniques, and a special, gradual exercise program can also help. (http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/chronicfatiguesyndrome.html)

CFS can cause different levels of disability in different people. Like all other chronic illnesses, CFS can be anywhere from mild or moderate to severe, meaning:

• mild – the person’s activity is reduced by at least 50 per cent
• moderate – the person is mostly housebound
• very severe – the person is bed-bound and dependent on help for all daily care.

Some people with CFS are too ill to work, go to school, socialise, and manage their family or their own affairs. (http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/chronic_fatigue_syndrome)

Possible complications of chronic fatigue syndrome include:

• Depression
• Social isolation
• Lifestyle restrictions
• Increased work absences (http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-fatigue-syndrome/basics/complications/con-20022009

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can I survive??