Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating medical condition characterized by profound and persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is often worsened by physical or mental exertion.
The exact cause of CFS is not well understood, and there is no definitive diagnostic test for the condition. It is believed to be a multifactorial disorder, possibly involving a combination of genetic, environmental, infectious, and immune system factors. CFS can develop suddenly or gradually and may follow an infection, such as a viral illness, but it can also appear without an identifiable trigger.
Diagnosis of CFS is typically made based on clinical criteria established by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). These criteria include the presence of debilitating fatigue and a set of specific symptoms that are used to rule out other medical conditions with similar symptoms.