Text Only

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Also known as: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), Post Viral Fatigue Syndrome (PVFS)

Definitions

CFS

CFS is classified as a disease of the nervous system which affects the individual at a physical, mental and emotional level. The causes are not fully understood, but it often develops after a virus, like flu or glandular fever, but it can also happen gradually for no obvious reasons.

The symptoms of CFS fluctuate wildly, with different symptoms affecting different people, and individuals being affected by different symptoms at different times. It is not uncommon for people to have good days and bad days, frequent remission and relapse. It is important that a period of remission does not indicate an end to the condition, and doing too much can bring on a relapse. CFS is most often diagnosed by the presence of a collection of symptoms, including:

  • Fatigue - often going way beyond normal tiredness
  • Muscle Pain
  • General Flu-Like Malaise
  • Disturbed Concentration and Memory
  • Loss of Balance
  • Muscle Weakness
  • Hypersensitivity to Stimuli - including light, and touch
  • Poor Stamina
  • Digestive Problems and Food Allergies
  • Alcohol Intolerance
  • Sleep Disturbance
  • Poor temperature control
  • Headaches and Migraines
  • Mood swings - which can sometimes lead to depression. This can lead to CFS being misdiagnosed as depression.

There is no accepted cure, and treatments that are effective for one person may not work, or be counterproductive for another. The irregular and invisible nature of the conditions can lead to misunderstandings and assumptions that the sufferer is being lazy, or faking their condition, which can fuel depression and mood swings.

People with the condition learn over time what works best for them, and how to manage their condition, and in time can build back towards 'normality' where they are no longer at the mercy of their symptoms and are back in control of their lives.

Things to consider

A person who has been able to put themselves through a course of Higher Education is likely to be in sufficient control of their symptoms to be able to perform satisfactorily in the work place. In fact, they are likely to show increased levels of determination and motivation.

However, you may need to still be flexible in order to prevent placing undue pressure on the individual. Reasonable adjustments might include providing a car parking space, implementing flexi-time, allowing work from home, providing a different computer screen, or a specialist chair or increasing the number of breaks allowed.

You may be able to get financial assistance towards any costs of reasonable adjustments from the Access to Work scheme, operated by Job Centre Plus. CFS is a very individual condition, so it is important to work with the person to provide suitable solutions.

Resources

GO Wales is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.
Action for ME
The UK's leading charity dedicated to improving the lives of people with ME / CFS. Their site contains information about the condition, support groups and campaigns information.
ME Association
Provides information and support about, and to people who have, ME / CFS.
Techdis
This site contains an extensive database of adaptive technology solutions for a range of disabilities.