Chronic Fatigue (Fatigue Syndrome)

Approximately 250,000 people in Germany suffer from chronic fatigue, also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). This very rare neurological condition is characterised by persistent, severe physical and mental weakness. This leads to inability to work in up to 75 percent of those affected; up to 25 percent are even bedridden. CFS is frequently equated with tiredness, yet the two terms cannot be used interchangeably. A holistic therapy can alleviate the symptoms of the condition. Our experienced doctors support you at all our locations.

For a reliable diagnosis of chronic fatigue, the following three symptoms must be present simultaneously and must have existed for at least half the duration of the illness. These are:

• a substantial reduction in the ability to engage in occupational, educational, social, or personal activities compared with the period before the illness. This must have been present for more than six months and must be accompanied by fatigue
• post-exertional malaise
• unrefreshing sleep

In addition to this trio, at least one of the following two symptoms must also be present:

• cognitive impairment (difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, memory problems)
• orthostatic intolerance (inability to maintain an upright posture for extended periods)

The triggers of chronic fatigue remain largely unknown to this day. However, the condition frequently occurs in association with the following factors:

• preceding viral illnesses (infectious mononucleosis, enterovirus infection, dengue virus infection, Q fever, Lyme disease, and coronavirus infection)
• stress and severe psychological strain
• a preceding accident or surgery
• unexplained autoimmune processes in the body

The typical symptoms of chronic fatigue include:

• persistent fatigue/exhaustion following and without prior physical exertion
• cognitive impairment
• orthostatic intolerance

A comprehensive exclusion diagnostic workup with an extensive laboratory panel is the first step in the treatment of your chronic fatigue. Where uncertainty remains, this includes referral to a specialist or to hospital for a cranial MRI.

This is followed by symptomatic therapy, which involves the following measures:

• assistance in positively accepting and understanding the impact of the condition
• integrated psychosocial and somatic support
• physical activity whilst avoiding overexertion
• cognitive-behavioural approaches
• management of additional symptoms (e.g. sleep disorders and pain)
• in rare cases: pharmacological treatment (such as supplementation in cases of concurrent iron deficiency)