Starting Monday, I am going to focus on discussing the main symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in detail. There are many symptoms of CFS so it is hard to focus on them all, but I will do my best to highlight the most disabling and the most frustrating symptoms that PWCs (people with CFS) deal with daily. I will try to discuss not only how each of these symptoms affect PWCs physically, but mentally and socially also.
The main symptoms of CFS include:
– incapacitating fatigue (experienced as profound exhaustion and extremely poor stamina)
– post-exertional malaise – a worsening of symptoms following physical or mental exertion occurring within 12-48 hours of the exertion and requiring an extended recovery period
– cognitive dysfunction – problems with concentration and short-term memory, word-finding difficulties, inability to comprehend/retain what is read, inability to calculate numbers and impairment of speech and/or reasoning.
– flu-like symptoms such as pain in the joints and muscles
– headache
Other common symptoms include:
– visual disturbances (blurring, sensitivity to light, eye pain, need for frequent prescription changes)
– psychological problems (depression, irritability, anxiety, panic attacks, personality changes, mood swings)
– shortness of breath
– dizziness and balance problems
– sensitivity to heat and/or cold
– alcohol intolerance
– irregular heartbeat
– irritable bowel
– low-grade fever or low body temperature
– numbness, tingling and/or burning sensations in the face or extremities
– dryness of the mouth and eyes (sicca syndrome)
– gynecological problems including severe PMS (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder or PMDD) and endometriosis
– chest pains
– rashes
– ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
– allergies and sensitivities to noise/sound, odors, chemicals and medications
– weight changes without changes in diet
– light-headedness, fainting
– mental fogginess
– muscle twitching
– seizures
Make sure you check back in each day this week to read detailed and personal information on each of these main symptoms of CFS!
That’s right. My brother has experienced these symptoms. He has had CFS for 2 years and now it getting worse when he has too much activity and not enough sleep. It’s very hurt him so much. So, for all of you that may have symptoms of CFS should see the doctor and have a treatment as soon as possible.