Following lack of adequate sleep, a stressful day at work or demands of family life, feeling exhausted is only natural. However, feeling chronic exhaustion and unrelenting fatigue may indicate a disorder called chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS. According to MedlinePlus, the criteria for CFS includes experiencing fatigue that is unrelieved by rest with overall symptoms lasting longer than six months and feeling incapacitated to perform daily living activities due to prolonged exhaustion. Symptoms of chronic exhaustion, or CFS, include both psychological and physiological effects, with fatigue as the main source and symptom of the disorder.
Impaired Cognition
Prolonged fatigue affects cognition and causes symptoms such as impaired memory and concentration, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Extreme exhaustion lasting longer than 24 hours is experienced both physically and mentally after any physical or cognitive activity. The Mayo Clinic website MayoClinic.com lists psychological problems such as increased irritability, anxiety or panic disorders and depression as other possible symptoms. Besides general drowsiness and brain fog, apathy or feeling indifferent regarding matters of importance, can accompany symptoms of fatigue, states the New York Times Health Guide.
Physical Symptoms
Other primary symptoms of chronic exhaustion, or CFS, include physical symptoms such as unexplained persistent muscle pain, headaches and joint pain unaccompanied by swelling or redness that may migrate from one joint to another. Sore throat and mildly painful enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or armpits are other characteristic symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, according to the CDC. Unfortunately, a good night of sleep will not relieve these symptoms as unrefreshing sleep proves another diagnostic symptom of CFS.
Other Possible Symptoms
While previously mentioned characteristic symptoms make up the criteria of diagnosis, an additional array of possible symptoms can accompany them, although the occurrence can vary. Gastrointestinal symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, bloating and weight gain or loss. Exhaustion can also cause balance problems, dizziness, fainting and visual disturbances. Additionally, sufferers can also experience irregular heartbeat, chest pain and shortness of breath as well.
