Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Factsheet

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) - also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis – is a
neurological disorder characterised by extreme mental and physical exhaustion and
weakness that persists for months.

This illness can affect children and adults of all ages, and varies in severity. While some
people are able to continue to go to work or school, others suffer more debilitating side
effects..

What causes CFS?

The single cause of CFS is unknown. The illness may appear suddenly, usually following
a viral infection. However, CFS can also develop gradually with no apparent trigger. With
no known cause there is currently no cure for CFS, though some treatments may
provide relief.

Symptoms include:

• Recurrent flu-like symptoms that last for at least 6 months in adults, and 3 months in children
• Post-exertional malaise - overwhelming fatigue following mental or physical activity
• Dysfunctional sleep
• Muscle and joint pain, headaches
• Memory and concentration problems
• Unusual sensitivity to light, sound, touch, some foods, alcohol and medication;
• Problems with standing and balance, and body temperature and weight

Impact of the illness

For a person with CFS, activities they once took for granted – cooking dinner, attending
school or work, even walking to the mail box – may take an enormous toll on their
health.

Because of this, people with CFS usually function at a lower capacity then they were
capable of before the onset of the illness.

A lack of community understanding of the difference between normal tiredness and the
extreme exhaustion of CFS, and the absence of a specific diagnostic test, can add to the
person’s difficulties.

How can Just Better Care help?

Just Better Care can support you with the help of our experienced community support
workers. We are able to support you to maintain your activities of daily living to make
managing your illness easier. This may involve the assistance of a care worker to help
prepare meals, providing some help around the house including assistance with light
cleaning or taking you out to appointments

References

ME/CFS Australia
Better Health Channel
ME/CFS Society of NSW