Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

CHRONIC FATIGUE AWARENESS WEEK (5TH -12TH MAY 2002)

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) which is also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, is a debilitating illness that causes extreme fatigue and is associated with symptoms such as;

• Unrefreshing sleep
  
• Headaches/Migraines
  
• Recurrent sore throats
  
• Joint/Muscle pain
  
• Swollen glands
  
• Fever
  
• Cognitive problems
  
• Sensitivities to food, chemicals and many more
  

CFS has been around for many years but has been given all sorts of different names from postviral syndrome, yuppie flue, chronic Epstein-Barr viral syndrome, Icelandic disease, Royal Free disease and Raggedy Ann syndrome.

CFS can affect people of any age or sex, though there is a much higher ratio of women who are affected than men. Around 0.02% of Australians are affected by this illness, which equates to approximately 3,800 people.

There is no known cause for CFS but it is usually triggered from an abnormal response from the central nervous system. 60% of suffers begin symptoms after an infection such as Glandular Fever, Chicken Pox, Ross River Virus or Hepatitis.

Some people seem to recover from CFS within two years but for others it can be ongoing with severe relapses for several years. It can affect them for the rest of their lives.

Treatment for CFS consists of a lot of rest incorporated with other changes including;

• Lifestyle changes
  
• A well balanced diet
  
• Vitamin Supplements
  
• Gentle exercise
  
• Pacing yourself
  
• Having a positive attitude
  

Unfortunately to date, there is no known cure for CFS except time, patience and support. Such support can be gained from the Chronic Fatigue Association, which provides advocacy, education and research for sufferers. The Chronic Fatigue Association has the following support services:

• A quarterly newsletter where members share their views and experiences.
  
• Library access and support line (03) 9888 8798
  
• Information kit for the public, GP's, schools, health and community centres
  
• Support groups
  
• Seminars throughout the year
  

CFS Awareness Week runs from the 5th-12th of May. Awareness Week is designed to create awareness for the general public, media, government and the medical professions. It is important to create awareness and raise money so that research can continue.

To promote Awareness Week the CFS Association are selling blue ribbons, badges and raffle tickets. Anyone who can help support CFS would be greatly appreciated and can contact the society on 9888 8997 or visit the web site at www.vicnet.net.au/~mecfs.


- S.C.