Welcome to the EMC Alam Sutera Hospital website! As part of our commitment to provide comprehensive health education, this time we will discuss Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a condition that is often undiagnosed but greatly affects the quality of life of sufferers.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a complex health disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest and may worsen with physical or mental activity. This condition is often accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle pain, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. CFS can affect anyone, but is more common in women aged 40–50 years.
Main Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
CFS symptoms vary from person to person, but some signs to look out for include:
- Severe fatigue that lasts more than 6 months and does not improve with rest.
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or not feeling refreshed after sleep.
- Muscle and joint pain without an obvious cause.
- Cognitive impairment (brain fog), such as difficulty concentrating or remembering.
- Headache, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes.
- Worsening of symptoms after activity (Post-Exertional Malaise/PEM).
Causes and Risk Factors of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The exact cause of CFS is still not fully understood, but several factors are thought to play a role:
- Viral or bacterial infection
- Immune system disorders
- Hormonal imbalances, especially those related to the adrenal glands and hypothalamus
- Prolonged physical or emotional stress
- Genetic factors that increase a person's susceptibility
Treatment for CFS is individualized, depending on the patient's symptoms and needs. Some of the approaches we offer include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to manage thought patterns and activities.
- Graded Exercise Therapy to increase stamina.
- Pain management with medications or non-pharmacological therapies.
- Nutritional counseling to ensure balanced nutritional intake.
- Mental support through psychological counseling.
When to See a Doctor?
Don't ignore fatigue that interferes with daily activities! Immediately visit a doctor at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital if:
- Fatigue does not improve after rest.
- Symptoms include fever, weight loss, or swollen glands.
- Sleep disturbances or pain interfere with quality of life.
Prevention and Tips for Managing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
While there is no sure way to prevent CFS, the following steps can help reduce your risk:
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.
- Maintain a regular sleep pattern.
- Do light physical activity consistently.
- Avoid excessive activity that triggers extreme fatigue.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not just “just feeling tired”. This condition requires multidisciplinary treatment to improve the quality of life of patients. At RS EMC Alam Sutera, we have a team of internal medicine specialists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists who are ready to accompany you with a personal and evidence-based approach.
Do not hesitate to consult with us via call center service, WhatsApp, website, or visit the internal medicine polyclinic of EMC Alam Sutera Hospital directly.
Your health is our priority!
Article written by dr. Elyanawati, Sp.PD (Specialist in Internal Medicine at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).