What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome or CFS is a disorder that can qualify for SSDI. Defined by extreme fatigue that lasts a minimum of six months with no other health condition. It is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis or ME.

According to the Mayo Clinic, no one knows what causes CFS. There is no test to confirm it. You must have medical tests to rule out other health problems to diagnose CFS. The treatment only focuses on symptom relief.

What Are the Symptoms of CFS?

Every person’s symptoms are different. You may even see fluctuation in your symptoms day after day. One day, you may feel weak, but able to leave your home. Another day, you may be in severe pain and unable to leave your bed.

The symptoms that you may suffer from include fatigue, headaches, unrefreshing sleep, extreme exhaustion after mental or physical work and memory problems. You may be unable to stand without dizziness and often patients report muscle and joint pain that has no explanation. Other symptoms include a sore throat and enlarged lymph nodes.

What Are the Effects of CFS?

CFS or ME can completely uproot your life by causing lifestyle restrictions. You may be unable to function like you used to. Daily activities may be off-limits because they cause exhaustion. You could lose your hobbies and the things that you loved. It is possible that you also will not be able to work. You may have increased absences from your job or you may be unable to go back to work. Other effects include social isolation and depression.