Am I Just Tired or Could It Be ME/CFS?

Tiredness and exhaustion are common symptoms that can occur due to various reasons, including physical exertion, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, stress, medical conditions, and certain medications. In the past, people may have experienced fatigue due to physical labour or demanding work.

The prevalence and impact of fatigue may be influenced by modern lifestyle factors and societal changes. In today's fast-paced and technologically advanced world, many individuals experience chronic fatigue due to factors such as long working hours, high levels of stress, sedentary lifestyles, disrupted sleep patterns (due to artificial lighting, electronic devices, etc.), and increased mental and emotional demands. Moreover, modern-day occupations often involve prolonged periods of sitting and mental exertion, leading to different forms of fatigue like mental fatigue or "burnout."

Additionally, the modern lifestyle offers a wide range of distractions, entertainment options, and demands for constant connectivity, which can affect sleep quality and quantity. This can contribute to increased levels of fatigue and its associated health issues. It is important to note that while feeling tired after exertion is a common experience, chronic or excessive fatigue can be a sign of an underlying deeper health challenge.

The level of tiredness in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is usually described as profound and debilitating. When you have these conditions you’ll feel exhausted beyond what is normal, even after getting adequate sleep. The fatigue can be so severe that it becomes life altering in that it interferes with daily activities and can lead to a significant decrease in quality of life. In ME/CFS the fatigue is often accompanied by other symptoms such as muscle weakness, pain, and cognitive difficulties (described as ‘brain fog’), which can make it difficult to perform even simple tasks. Whilst ME/CFS are conditions that share many symptoms with fatigue, there are some key differences that may help you distinguish between the two.

If you’ve been experiencing all four symptoms of persistent profound fatigue for three months or more that isn’t alleviated by rest or sleep, sleep disturbances, your fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity and you get other symptoms such as difficulty concentrating and other cognitive difficulties it may be time to go to your GP and ask for a referral.

It's important to note that the level of fatigue in ME/CFS can vary from person to person and may fluctuate over time in the same individual, it is after all called a fluctuating condition.  

ME/CFS is a complex and often misunderstood condition and its symptoms can overlap with other medical conditions. As a result, many individuals with ME/CFS may go misdiagnosed for years before receiving the correct diagnosis and a significant number of people with ME/CFS remain undiagnosed. According to estimates from various studies and organisations, it is believed that a substantial portion of individuals with ME/CFS are undiagnosed. In the UK the number of undiagnosed is unknown. The United States estimates that around 84-91% of people with ME/CFS are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

One reason for the high rate of underdiagnosis is the lack of awareness and understanding of ME/CFS among healthcare professionals. The complex nature of the condition and the absence of specific diagnostic tests contribute to diagnostic challenges. Additionally, many individuals may not seek medical attention for their fatigue or may not find a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about ME/CFS. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding ME/CFS can also hinder diagnosis. The condition has historically faced skepticism and misunderstanding, leading some individuals to avoid seeking medical help or being dismissed by healthcare providers.

I’m a Functional Medicine Nutritionist I support people to transform their health from chronic exhaustion to effortless energy through nutrition and lifestyle changes. If you are experiencing any or all of the symptoms mentioned book a complimentary Health Transformation Strategy Call to take the first steps to improving your energy levels.