Symptoms Of CFS Part Two
Chronic fatigue syndrome has many symptoms but many can mimic other illnesses so it is essential that a doctor carefully look at a patient’s medical history as well as find out how many symptoms the person is suffering from and how long they have been around for. Isolating the health condition can only happen if the doctor is thorough in his or her examination of the patient, both in terms of physical health as well as mental functioning.
If a patient suffers from prolonged and unexplained fatigue that lasts for more than a day at a time this is referred to as “post exertional malaise” and could point to a diagnosis of CFS. Post exertional malaise is especially common after physical or mental activity such as playing a game of basketball or baseball or studying for an exam. If a person suffers fatigue either during or immediately following an activity that they commonly do on a regular basis this could mean that they are suffering from CFS. As well if a person wakes up in the morning and feels fatigued (known as “unrefreshing” sleep) this is a sign or symptom of CFS.
Experiencing a mild and low-grade fever accompanied by the chills is another symptom of CFS as is having a dry, inflamed and very sore throat. If lymph nodes in either your neck or armpits suddenly become swollen or tender this is a symptom of CFS as is a general feeling of muscle weakness or pain in the muscles.
Generalized types of headaches are common with CFS as are new types of headaches that suddenly develop or headaches that are new in their level of severity or the pattern they take. Pain that jumps around from joint to joint but is not accompanied by any level of redness or swelling is a common symptom of CFS as is feeling cold all of the time and night sweats.
People who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome often react negatively to environmental agents such as chemicals, odors, perfumes, cigarette smoke, toxins, pesticides, et cetera and they are often very sensitive to a variety of sounds, sensations, and temperatures. Having “neurally mediated hypotension” is a symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome. Normally when an individual stands up their blood pressure drops down a bit but for those who suffer from CFS it drops down a lot, which can cause the person to become faint or dizzy and sometimes nauseous. The next thing that happens is that the person heart rate drastically drops and this can cause the person to pass out.
Gastrointestinal problems are also a symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome and this includes bloating, constipation and diarrhea. People who suffer from CFS are prone to developing other sicknesses very easily and are susceptible to any number of allergies, infections or viruses.
Problems with mental functioning can also be a symptom of CFS and this includes forgetfulness, extreme irritability, confusion, and problems with concentration. Any one or a combination of these problems could lead to problems at home, at school, at work and with one’s social activities.
