Chronic fatigue syndrome is the term used when people experience severe fatigue which is inconsistent with the amount of activity they have undertaken and not related to any other associated cause. Chronic fatigue syndrome is usually diagnosed following a period of 6 months of chronic fatigue, along with other symptoms.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is also sometimes referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (MDA Internet 2005; Better Health Channel 2006).
Symptoms and characteristics
The one common symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome is severe chronic fatigue which is inconsistent with the amount of activity undertaken.
Other symptoms may include:
- chronic flu like feeling which may include sore throat, fever and nausea
- disturbed sleep
- headaches
- heart rate and blood pressure changes
- impaired capacity to concentrate
- impaired memory
- muscle and joint pain
- sensitivity to temperature changes, light, touch and sound
- shortness of breath following any form of exercise
- urinary and gastrointestinal problems
- weight loss or gain.
These symptoms are present for at least six months and for some people they last years, with ongoing relapses in the longer term.
Statistics
Chronic fatigue syndrome is estimated to affect females slightly more than males, and is most common in young and middle aged adults. It is estimated that 1 to 2 per 1000 people in the general population experience chronic fatigue syndrome (MDA Internet 2005; M.E./CFS Society of Victoria 2006).
Workplace adjustments and solutions
In the workplace there are various factors that would greatly assist people with chronic fatigue syndrome to better manage their symptoms. These include changes to the work routine, duties or shifts (MDA Internet 2005; Better Health Channel 2006; M.E./CFS Society of Victoria 2006).
There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:
References
Better Health Channel 2007, Chronic fatigue syndrome, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 30 March 2007, < http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Chronic_fatigue_syndrome?open>.
MDA Internet 2005, Reed Group Ltd, Colorado, viewed 27 April 2007, <http://www.mdainternet.com (secure site)>.
M.E./Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Society of Victoria Inc. 2006, What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?, M.E./Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Society of Victoria Inc, Melbourne, viewed 27 April 2007, <http://home.vicnet.net.au/~mecfs/info/info01.html>.