Chronic fatigue, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID), is a complex and serious long-term illness characterized by extreme and persistent fatigue that is not improved by rest. The fatigue is debilitating and impacts a person's ability to carry out daily activities.
Some key facts about chronic fatigue:
Diagnosing chronic fatigue is challenging as there are no definitive tests. Doctors need to first rule out other conditions like thyroid disorders, sleep apnea and depression.
Some common symptoms include:
Living with chronic fatigue can be extremely difficult and isolating. People are often too sick to work, socialize or care for themselves and family. Simple tasks become impossible. Sufferers describe it as flu, a concussion, and hangover rolled into one.
If you think you may suffer from chronic fatigue, see your doctor and get referred to a specialist. At Endocrine Wellness Center, our chronic fatigue specialist can run comprehensive tests, provide support, and customize a treatment plan to best manage your symptoms. With over 20 years of experience helping chronic fatigue patients, we are compassionate experts that you can trust.
Coping strategies for chronic fatigue include:
While there is presently no cure, people with chronic fatigue can improve their quality of life by carefully managing activity levels, reducing stress, eating healthy and getting support. Researchers continue working to better understand the illness and develop more effective treatments. There is hope that one day we may unlock the mysteries behind this devastating disease.