Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
A
Continued severe tiredness not relieved by rest
2
Q
What is CFS also known as?
A
- Myalgic encephalomyelitis (inflammation of brain and spinal cord) or
Tapanui ‘flu
3
Q
Demographics:
A
Most common in women aged 30-50
4
Q
Aetiology
A
Unknown
5
Q
Signs and symptoms of CFS:
A
- New
- Lasts at least 6 months
- Not relieved by bed rest
- Severe enough to prevent participation in most activities
- Feeling extremely tired for more than 24 hours after exercise that would normally be considered easy
- Feeling un-refreshed after sleeping for a proper amount of time
- Forgetfulness
- Concentration problems
- Confusion
- Joint pain but no swelling or redness
- Headaches that differ from those you have had in the past
- Irritability
- Mild fever
- Muscle aches
- Muscle weakness, all over,
- Sore throat
- Sore lymph nodes in the neck or under the arms
6
Q
Pathophysiology of CFS:
A
Unknown
Possible Virus?
7
Q
Conventional therapies for CFS:
A
- Conservation of energy
- Relaxation and stress management; communication
- Balanced diet; avoid sugary drinks
- NSAIDs; low-dose antidepressants
- Nutritional supplements (vits A, E, C, B12)
- “Alternative” therapies – acupuncture, massage
8
Q
What is the Role of aerobic exercise in rehabilitation of CFS?
White et al., (2011)
A
Reverse the deconditioning cycle – using physical exercise
9
Q
What was the most beneficial Tx method for CFS from the White et at study?
A
o Cognitive behaviour therapy (reverse fear avoidance behaviours – use
of physical activity)
