Chronic fatigue Flashcards
What is the rough prevalence of chronic fatigue syndrome in the UK?
~250,000
When does chronic fatigue syndrome usually develop?
early 20s - mid 40s
Define mild chronic fatigue syndrome.
able to care for self but may require days off work to rest
Define moderate chronic fatigue syndrome.
may have reduce mobility and symptoms can vary; may have disturbed sleep patterns and need to sleep in the afternoons
Define severe chronic fatigue syndrome.
able to carry out minimal daily tasks such as brushing teeth, but has reduced mobility and also may have difficulty concentrating
Describe the fatigue which is present in chronic fatigue syndrome
Persistent mental and physical fatigue that does not go away with sleep or rest, and limits usual activities
Other than fatigue, what other symptoms may those with chronic fatigue syndrome experience?
muscular pain, joint pain, severe headaches, poor short term memory and concentration, painful lymph nodes, stomach pain and IBS-like symptoms, sore throat, sleeping problems, sensitivity to light, noise, alcohol and certain foods, psychological issues, diziness, excessive sweating, balance issues
What are the red flag symptoms in chronic fatigue syndrome that may lead more to an alternative diagnosis?
localizing/focal neurological signs evidence of inflammatory arthritis or CTD evidence of cardiorespiratory disease significant weight loss sleep apnoea clinically significant lymphadenopathy
What are the possible causes for chronic fatigue syndrome?
glandular fever/bacterial infection immune dysfunction hormone imbalance psychiatric problems genetics traumatic events
If a person is suspected to have chronic fatigue syndrome, what features of the symptoms will apply to make it less likely to be anything else?
New, or had clear starting point persistent, recurrent or both unexplained by other conditions substantially reduces the amount of activity someone can do feels worse after physical activity
How long should symptoms persist before a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome can be confirmed?
4 months in an adult
3 months in a child/young person
What are the goals of treatment in chronic fatigue syndrome?
maintain and increase emotional and physical activities
manage physical and emotional effects of symptoms
What treatments are effective in chronic fatigue syndrome?
CBT graded exercise therapy activity management painkillers antidepressants for insomnia or pain lifestyle modifications to avoid triggers and make most out of time when feeling well
