Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

Overview

ME/CFS causes deep fatigue that rest doesn't fix and a crash (post-exertional malaise) after even small efforts.

It often starts after an infection, including COVID-19.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Severe lasting tiredness
• Crashing for days after activity

Less common

• Brain fog
• Unrefreshing sleep
• Dizziness on standing
• Muscle aches

Look up a symptom: Fatigue · Trouble sleeping

When to get medical care

Causes

Unknown; often after infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Women

Diagnosis

Diagnosis by symptoms.

Treatment

Pace yourself.

Self-care

• Stay within your energy limits
• Rest before exhaustion
• Plan rest breaks before you're exhausted
• Keep a symptom diary

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Women: More common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Varies.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Are there ME/CFS specialists near me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)