Chronic Fatigue syndrome

Question 1

After how long can chronic fatigue syndrome be diagnosed?

Answer 1

at least 3 months of disabling fatigue affecting mental and physical function >50% of the time

**must be in the absence of other disease which may explain symptoms

Question 2

In which gender is chronic fatigue more common?

Answer 2

Females

Question 3

Other recognised features of chronic fatigue syndrome

Answer 3

sleep problems - insomnia, hypersomnia, disturbed sleep-wake cycle
muscle/ joint pains
headaches
painful lymph nodes without enlargement
sore throat
cognitive dysfunction
physical or mental exertion worsens symptoms
‘flu-like’ symptoms
dizziness
nausea
palpitations

Question 4

Blood tests which may be helpful to rule out other pathology

Answer 4

FBC, U&E, LFT, glucose, TFT, ESR, CRP, calcium, CK, ferritin, coeliac screening and also urinalysis

Question 5

Management of chronic fatigue syndrome

Answer 5

refer to a specialist CFS service
energy management
physical activity and exercise
cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) [supportive rather than curative]