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People with CFS can be so tired they do not have enough energy to get out of bed. Brushing their teeth can become a major effort.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or Chronic Fatigue and Immune System Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS) is an extremely severe form of fatigue that doesn't go away, in combination with a number of other physical problems, including:
- Severe, disabling fatigue and weakness
- Flu-like symptoms (swollen lymph glands, sore throat, low-grade fever, severe headaches)
- Pain in muscles, joints, and nerves
- Sleep difficulties, cognitive problems (impairing one's ability to think clearly), dizziness, seizures, numbness, temporary paralysis, eye problems, and depression
- Thyroid and hormonal imbalances
- New allergies
CFS causes profound fatigue and muscle weakness, usually following viral illness. This syndrome is also known as Myalgic Encephalitis (ME), post-infectious neuromyasthenia, post-viral syndrome, yuppie flu, or formerly chronic Epstein Barr virus. CFIDS can cause injury to the brain, immune system and muscles of the people who suffer from it.
Books:
- Women and Fatigue, by Dr. Holly Atkinson
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, by Dr. Jesse Stoff and Charles Pellegrino (Random House, 1988).
- Full of Life, How to Fight Epstein Barr Virus, Candida, Herpes and Other
- Immuno-depressive Disorders, by Dr. Luc DeSchepper
National ME/FM Action Network
3836 Carling Avenue, Hwy 17B
Nepean ON K2H 7V2
Tel: (613) 829-6667