What is CFS?

CFS

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) causes significant ill health and disability in sufferers, and it is an officially recognised medical condition by the World Health Organisation International Classification of Diseases, as well as recent international and Australian guidelines on CFS.

CFS is also known by other names such as Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome / Myalgic Encephalopathy / Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

CFS is characterised by severe, disabling fatigue and post-exertional malaise lasting more than 6 months. Other symptoms may include:

muscle aches and pain;
unrefreshing sleep or altered sleep patterns;
neuro-cognitive dysfunction (e.g. poor concentration and memory);
gastro-intestinal symptoms (e.g.irritable bowel);
orthostatic intolerance (e.g. low blood pressure);
unusual headaches.

A hallmark of the condition is that symptoms are usually worsened with minimal physical and mental exertion.

The prognosis for ME/CFS is variable. Most patients will generally improve in functionality to some degree over time, usually 3 to 5 years. However, symptoms may fluctuate or relapses may occur from time to time. Early intervention and positive diagnosis often result in better prognosis. However, a significant proportion of patients will remain quite debilitated for a long time.

See the Links page for more information about CFS.