Interstitial Cystitis Network : Patient Handbook : Related Conditions : Chronic Fatigue Syndrome -

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Created: February 25, 1999
by: Diane Manhattan
Revised: August 2001
Diane Manhattan

You are here: IC Network > Patient Handbook > Related Conditions > CFS

An Introduction to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is also known as Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS). The symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are characterized by pronounced exhaustion and poor stamina, and features self-reported impairments in concentration and short-term memory, sleep disturbances, and musculoskeletal pain.

CFS can resemble the symptoms of Fibromyalgia and Myofascial Pain Syndrome. The revised case definition (abridged version) "A case of chronic Fatigue Syndrome is defined by the presence of the following:

Clinically evaluated, unexplained persistent or relapsing chronic fatigue that is of new or definite onset (i.e., not lifelong), is not the result of ongoing exertion, is not substantially alleviated by rest, and results in substantial reduction in previous levels of occupational, educational, social, or personal activities.
The concurrent occurrence of four or more of the following symptoms: substantial impairment in short-term memory or concentration; sore throat; tender lymph nodes; muscle pain; multi-joint pain without swelling or redness; headaches of a new type, pattern, or severity; unrefreshing sleep; and post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours. These symptoms must have persisted or recurred during 6 or more consecutive months of illness and must not have predated the fatigue.

Other symptoms that may accompany CFS are/but not limited to are:

chills and night sweats
shortness of breath
dizziness and balance problems
sensitivity to heat and/or cold
alcohol intolerance
irregular heartbeat
irritable bowel
low-grade fever or low body temperature
numbness, tingling and/or burning sensations in the face or extremities
dryness of the mouth and eyes
menstrual problems including PMS and endometriosis
chest pains
rashes
ringing in the ears allergies and sensitivities to noise/sound, odors, chemicals and medications
weight changes without changes in diet
light-headedness
feeling in a fog
fainting
muscle twitching
seizures

Additional Information

The American Association for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
C/o Harborview Medical Center
Box 359780
Seattle, WA 98104
#206-521-1932

Informational Websites

CFS Patients Can Develop Serious Bladder Problems - Neenyah Ostrom

Understanding CFS: From The CFIDS Association of America

CFS-Fact Sheet -NIAID

Medline Plus Health Information

CFIDS Association of America - Understanding CFIDS

SELECTED BIBLIOGRAPHY CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME - Page contents provided by Board members of the AACFS

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Books Worth Reading:

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome : A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Treatments, and Solving the Practical Problems of Cfs
Author: Gregg Charles Fisher, Paul R. Cheney, James M. Oleske

In this enlightening and compassionate guide, one of the foremost specialists in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome--himself a ten-year survivor of the disease--helps victims and their loved ones regain control of their lives. This updated edition includes new information about current medical treatments, related disorders, and strategies for living with the CFS.

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