Chronic
fatigue syndrome (CFS) is the medical term for a grouping of
symptoms that
include severe fatigue, weakness, fever, sore throat and lymph nodes, confusion, depression, and a reduced ability to concentrate. These symptoms can last for years. At one time CFS was known as the "yuppie flu," because it was initially identified most commonly among young professional persons. First reports of CFS appeared in the mid-1980s. At that time many physicians were dismissive of patients' complaints, but recent research has confirmed variations in basic bodily functions of people with CFS. The Epstein-Barr herpes
virus is often present in
persons with these symptoms, but researchers have ruled out this virus as the cause, which remains unknown. Some theories on the cause of CFS include a reactivation of childhood viruses, abnormally activated cytokines (cells that amplify the immune system when a virus enters the body),
low amounts of hormones, and brain inflammation. Treatment thus far has mainly been directed toward relief of symptoms, and may include analgesics, antiviral drugs, and low doses of different types of antidepressants. In addition,
patients can learn to schedule activities at times when they tend to have more energy.
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