The pain felt by this disease is constant. Headaches can last for days at a time. Many people complain about being tired and not being able to work a full workday. This can hinder a person’s social life, their career, and any other plans they may have had.

Many health care providers are hesitant to diagnose a person with CFS for several reasons. The first reason is that this disorder can mimic other health issues including diabetes, cancer, or heart disease - the are diagnosis that one should not miss. Secondly, this is a long term chronic condition that leaves many people frustrated. Chronic fatigue syndrome will be diagnosed only after many tests have been run in order to eliminate other possibilities. This can make waiting for a diagnosis very frustrating.

Regardless of the clinical diagnosis people with constant health issues will have to change the way they eat and how they exercise. This will help the body feel better.

There is no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome. although symptoms may disappear over time, many people will have to live with the disorder for the rest of their lives. Making changes in their will help them cope. Changing one’s career if their current one is too stressful may help as well. Chronic fatigue syndrome will usually not get worse; it will just be there all the time. Many people suffer from depression as a result of living with the disorder. They may be put on medication or they may have to practice ways to reduce stress and add more enjoyment into their lives over time.

© 2007, Barbara C. Phillips, MN, NP is a nurse practitioner who has been providing health care to individuals since 1973. She currently provides primary care in WA State as well as writes and counsels women regarding health care online. You’ll find a variety of topics at Healthy Aging For Women and OlderWiserWomen.