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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic Fatigue: A Symptom of Many Diseases
Chronic fatigue is a symptom of many diseases that fall under the NIAMS mission, such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and lupus. Although the cause of chronic fatigue is unknown, infection, hormone levels, and stress are believed to play a role in its symptoms. Chronic fatigue often results from sleep disturbance, usually insomnia, in combination with chronic pain and depression. Stress, physical inactivity, poor diet, and medications may also contribute to chronic fatigue. Social and cultural factors are also believed to play a role in chronic fatigue symptoms. People with mobility-limiting disorders often experience chronic fatigue. Regardless of the cause, chronic fatigue has a major impact on day-to-day functioning and quality of life.
Talking to Your Doctor About Chronic Fatigue
If you think you may be struggling with chronic fatigue, it is important to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. Symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and pain are particularly important to discuss. It is also important to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, including dietary supplements and alternative and complementary treatments, because some medications can exaggerate the symptoms listed above. For example, stimulants (such as caffeine) as well as corticosteroids may cause sleep disturbances. Your doctor can provide guidance on what medications and interventions may restore your sleep, as well as advice on medications to avoid. It is also important to discuss chronic pain symptoms with your doctor because chronic pain often leads to sleep difficulties, which in turn leads to chronic fatigue. Your doctor may order laboratory tests to determine what organ(s) may be involved in causing chronic fatigue.
Your doctor may recommend self-management strategies to handle your fatigue. For example, the Arthritis Self-Help Course (developed by the Arthritis Foundation) is an effective way to reduce many symptoms of arthritis, including fatigue. Maintaining a healthy weight and participating in regular exercise may also help reduce symptoms of fatigue.
Chronic Fatigue vs. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Why is Basic Research Important to Understanding Fatigue?
Why are Clinical and Behavioral Research Important to Understanding Fatigue?
