CFS is a symptom that has gained much attention since the 1980s, particularly in Europe and the United States. The causes are not clear and the treatment as well, is not well established.
Some have linked the casue to outbreaks have in the wake of infectious diseases such as colds, but it is still not confirmed.
Symptoms are persistent fatigue and other symptoms that last for six months in adults. These symptoms are not caused by exertion, not relieved by rest and are not caused by other medical conditions.
Diagnostic criteria of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (Japan) established CFS as “profound fatigue continually for more than six months, and sick leave from work are taken a few days each month.” Common symptoms include: muscle pain, joint pain, low-grade fever, headache, low blood pressure, loss of concentration, loss of appetite, sore throat, insomnia, candidiasis (fungal infection), and certain gastrointestinal problems.
Currently, four million people in the United States suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome, and 3 in 1000 people suffer from it in Japan. CFS affects women more than men, especially women in their late 20s to 40s, have stressful and high responsibility jobs, who tend to keep their complaints and problems to themselve and do not have time to release stress.
Many sufferers of CFS may be unfairly thought of as just lazy, and can even be misdiagnosed by doctors as having depression and psychosomatic disorder.
Above all, seek the understanding, support and care from family and colleagues.