Learn about chronic fatigue

This article is expertly consulted by Master, Doctor Bui Ngoc Phuong Hoa - General Internal Medicine - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Danang International General Hospital.

Fatigue is a symptom that many people experience. However, a person is only considered to have chronic fatigue when the condition persists for more than 6 months. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition.
Fatigue can be worse with physical activity or with mental problems that do not improve with rest. Chronic fatigue syndrome (English name is Chronic fatigue syndrome). Currently, the cause is unknown, although there are many theories ranging from viral infections to psychological stress. Some experts believe that chronic fatigue syndrome can be triggered by a combination of factors. Treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome focuses on reducing symptoms of the disease.

Chronic fatigue is diagnosed when signs of fatigue are present for at least 6 months and at least 4 of the following symptoms:
Chronic fatigue Memory loss or difficulty concentrating Sore throat Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or armpits Pain unexplained muscle or joint pain Headache Not getting enough sleep Exhaustion that lasts more than 24 hours after exercise or stressful work When to see a doctor: Fatigue can be a symptom of many conditions, such as such as infection or psychological disorder. In general, a person should see a doctor if they experience persistent fatigue or excessive fatigue that interferes with daily living.

People with chronic fatigue syndrome have symptoms of being hypersensitive to everyday activities such as exercise and normal activities.
Why this happens in some people and not in others, doctors still don't know the exact cause. Some people may be born with a predisposition to this disorder, which is then triggered by a combination of several factors. Possible triggers include:
2.1 Viral infections Since some people develop chronic fatigue syndrome after being infected with a virus, researchers question whether certain viruses may be causing this disorder. or not. Suspicious viruses include Epstein-Barr virus, human herpes virus type 6, and murine leukemia virus.
2.2 Immune system problems The immune systems of people with chronic fatigue syndrome are somewhat weakened, but it is unclear if this impairment is sufficient to actually cause the disorder.
2.3 Hormonal Imbalances People with chronic fatigue syndrome also sometimes have symptoms of abnormal blood levels of hormones produced in the hypothalamus, pituitary or adrenal glands. But the significance of these abnormalities is still unknown.

Factors that can increase the risk of chronic fatigue syndrome include:
3.1 Age
Chronic fatigue syndrome can occur at any age, but it is more common in people in their 40s and 50.
3.2 Gender
Women are diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome much more often than men.
3.3 Fatigue, stress
Difficulty managing stress (stress) can contribute to the onset of chronic fatigue syndrome.

Possible complications of chronic fatigue syndrome include:
Depression Body weakness Social isolation Affects daily activities Frequent absences from work

There is no definitive test to confirm a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome, as the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome can closely resemble so many other health problems that it can take time to diagnose. .
A doctor needs to rule out a number of other conditions before diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome, including:
5.1 Sleep disorders Chronic fatigue occurs as a result of sleep disturbances. A review of the patient's sleep can determine whether the person has disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome (also known as restless legs syndrome) or insomnia.
5.2 Heart and lung failure Problems with the heart or lungs can make you feel more tired. Your doctor will perform some tests to evaluate your heart and lung function such as echocardiogram, respiratory function measurement...
5.3 Mental health problems Fatigue is also a symptom of a variety of things. mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
5.4. Some other diseases have symptoms similar to chronic fatigue syndrome, including: - Hypothyroidism
- Fibromyalgia
- myasthenia gravis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- severe obesity,...

Currently, there is no specific treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome, treatment mainly focuses on reducing symptoms of the disease.
6.1 Medicines Many people with chronic fatigue syndrome have depression. Treating your depression can make it easier for you to deal with the problems associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Using low doses of some antidepressants can also help improve sleep and reduce pain.
6.2 Therapy The most effective treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome is a combination of cognitive training and gentle exercise.
Cognitive training. Talking to a counselor can help you find options for overcoming some of the limitations that chronic fatigue syndrome places on you. When you feel that you have more control over your body, your life can be significantly improved according to your wishes.
6.3. Lifestyle changes Making some lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms of this syndrome such as:
Limiting or not drinking caffeine, nicotine and alcohol can help you sleep better and reduce insomnia. Don't take a nap so you'll be more likely to fall asleep at night. Make it a habit to go to bed and wake up at the same time. 6.4. Maintain an exercise routine Patients should seek advice from their doctor or physical therapist to help determine what type of exercise is best for you. Inactive people often start with simple mobility and stretching exercises for just a few minutes a day. Gradually increasing the amount and duration of exercise over time can help reduce exercise hypersensitivity, just as allergy shots gradually decrease a person's sensitivity to allergens. response.
6.5. Alternative treatments Acupuncture, tai chi, yoga, and massage can help relieve pain and fatigue caused by chronic fatigue syndrome. However, patients should talk to their doctor before starting any alternative or complementary treatments.
CONCLUSION:
- Chronic fatigue syndrome is a common disease in clinical practice that we often target with depression or neurasthenia.
- Diagnosis is based on fatigue persisting for at least 6 months that is not relieved by rest with some other criteria after excluding fatigue due to other physical diseases
- Treatment is complex and without specific drugs.
Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the hospitals that not only ensures professional quality with a team of leading medical doctors, modern equipment and technology, but also stands out for its examination and consultation services. comprehensive and professional medical consultation and treatment; civilized, polite, safe and sterile medical examination and treatment space.
Master. Doctor Bui Ngoc Phuong Hoa has more than 24 years of experience in the field of neuropsychology. Doctor Hoa was formerly Deputy Head of the Department of Neurology - Quang Ngai Provincial General Hospital and participated in many continuous training courses on Epilepsy, Cerebrovascular Accident, Alzheimer's, Movement Disorders, Geriatrics. Endocrine Pathology.