Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-term illness that can be hard to diagnose. The main symptom of CFS is extreme fatigue (tiredness) that may make it hard or impossible to do daily tasks.

AFTER YOU LEAVE:

Follow up with your primary healthcare provider as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Activity and home care:

Your primary healthcare provider may suggest some of the following treatments or lifestyle changes to help decrease your CFS symptoms:

• Activity level: Do not try to get everything done on good days. This can worsen CFS symptoms in the days that follow. Learn how much you can do without getting too tired, and pace yourself. It may take time for you to learn which activity levels will not make your CFS symptoms worse. A regular daily routine may help you avoid doing too much on the days that you feel better. It may be hard to accept that you may not be able to do everything that you used to do.
  
  
• Exercise: Get regular exercise, but decrease your activity if it causes fatigue or other symptoms. You may need to set new goals. For example, set a goal of exercising for 5 minutes instead of your usual 30 minutes. It is best to start slowly and do more as you get stronger. Stop if you get too tired. Exercise can help to keep you from losing too much of your strength while you are ill. Ask your primary healthcare provider to help you plan the best exercise program for you.
  
  
• Rest: Rest is the most important treatment for CFS. Take naps and change your schedule to fit your energy level. You may need to take 5 to 10 minute rest periods every hour or more. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same times every day.
  
  
• Joint or muscle aches:
  
  
  • Heat: Use heat to help with aches in your joints or muscles. Use a heating pad (turned on low) or a hot water bottle, or sit in a warm bath. Apply heat on the area for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed.
    
    
  • Ice: Some people find that ice works better to decrease muscle or joint aches. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel and place it on the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed.
  
  
• Other tips to help you deal with CFS:
  
  
  • Use a diary or calendar to keep track of how you are doing from day to day. Write down your activities and symptoms. This record will help you learn when you have the most energy. You will also be able to follow your progress. Bring this diary with you when you see your primary healthcare provider.
    
    
  • If you are having trouble with your memory, write yourself notes to remind you to do things. Give yourself more time to do activities that need more attention. Set an alarm clock to help you remember when to exercise, take your medicines, or do other activities.

Manage stress:

Stress may make your symptoms worse. The following may help you cope with stress:

• Emotional support: Your life may change a lot because of your CFS. Talk to your primary healthcare provider, family, or friends about your feelings. Emotional support is important for you during this time. You may need counseling to help you cope. Cognitive behavior therapy can teach you how to deal with changes in your relationships and lifestyle. Family therapy can help you and your family members deal with the stress of CFS.
  
  
• Relaxation: Learn new ways to relax and decrease stress, such as deep breathing, meditation, or muscle relaxation. Ask for more information about relaxation methods that may be right for you.

For support and more information:

• Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America
  P.O. Box 220398
  Charlotte , NC 28222-0398
  Phone: 1- 704 - 365-2343
  Web Address: http://www.cfids.org
  

• National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Association
  PO Box 18426
  Kansas City , MO 64133
  Phone: 1- 816 - 313-2000
  Web Address: http://www.ncfsfa.org
  

Contact your primary healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have new symptoms that you are worried about.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You think about hurting yourself or someone else.
  
  

Learn more about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (Discharge Care)