USA: Harvard Health Publishing, Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Unraveling the Complexities of Persistent Tiredness

Sly Saint · Jun 30, 2023

About the Author

Robert H. Shmerling, MD
Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School.

June 29, 2023

Through this comprehensive article, we aim to shed light on the intricate nature of chronic fatigue syndrome. Our goal is to offer a thorough understanding of this condition – its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and available management strategies. By delving into the complexities of CFS, we aim to provide invaluable knowledge to individuals battling this condition, their loved ones, and the healthcare community as a whole.

Join us on this enlightening journey as we unravel the mysteries surrounding chronic fatigue syndrome, empowering individuals with knowledge and hope in the face of this challenging condition.
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3. Post-Exertional Malaise: One of the distinguishing features of CFS is post-exertional malaise (PEM). Physical or mental activities that were once manageable can trigger a worsening of symptoms that last for hours, days, or even weeks. This exacerbation of fatigue, pain, cognitive dysfunction, and overall malaise can be debilitating.
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no mention of the delay.

In addition to ruling out other conditions, there are certain criteria recognized for diagnosing CFS. The most widely used criteria is the Fukuda criteria, established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to these criteria, individuals must experience persistent fatigue for at least six months, along with the presence of other symptoms such as cognitive impairments, post-exertional malaise, and unrefreshing sleep.
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One integral aspect of managing CFS involves implementing lifestyle modifications. This includes practicing good sleep hygiene, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity within the limits of one's energy levels. Encouraging patients to pace themselves, balance rest and activity, and prioritize self-care can contribute to better symptom management.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is another valuable tool in CFS management. CBT aims to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that may contribute to the perpetuation of CFS symptoms. Patients learn coping mechanisms, stress management techniques, and strategies to gradually increase activity levels while conserving energy.
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https://chgeharvard.org/understandi...ing-the-complexities-of-persistent-tiredness/

Trish · Jun 30, 2023

'persistent tiredness' and 'strategies to gradually increase activity levels while conserving energy.' and focus on Fukuda criteria make this pretty awful, however good some other parts may be.

Trish · Jun 30, 2023

I've read a bit more:

Is there a cure for chronic fatigue syndrome?
Currently, there is no known cure for chronic fatigue syndrome. However, various management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with CFS. These may include lifestyle modifications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, graded exercise therapy, and symptom-specific medications. Treatment plans are individualized and may vary depending on the patient's specific needs and preferences.
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It's terrible.

Lots of waffle and repetition too:

Conclusion
In conclusion, this comprehensive exploration of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) has shed light on the complexities of this debilitating condition. We have delved into the key points related to understanding CFS, recognizing its symptoms, and the challenges of diagnosing the condition accurately.

By unraveling the causes of CFS, it becomes apparent that a multitude of factors, including viral infections, immune system dysfunction, and genetic predispositions, contribute to its development. The range of symptoms experienced by individuals with CFS highlights the need for a holistic and patient-centered approach in both diagnosis and management.
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Student essay or Chat GPT perhaps?

Trish · Jun 30, 2023

Sly Saint said: ↑

no , Harvard Medical School MD, see opening post
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Sorry, yes I know that, I was meaning to be sarcastic. That seems about its level.

shak8 · Jun 30, 2023

This website, part of Harvard's Chan School of Public Health contains other pablum articles (see chronic pain) which are written at a grade-school level so I assume it's for the public who are interested in the "wellness."

Certainly, this is not expert or specialist-written material.

Trish · Jun 30, 2023

Proving my point that this could have been written using ChatGPT, here's a link to where I've posted what it came up with today for a short article about CFS for either a wellness website or a University medical department website. I'd say they are very similar to this Harvard article.
https://www.s4me.info/threads/openais-new-chatgpt.30712/page-5#post-480868

Sean · Jul 1, 2023

By unraveling the causes of CFS, it becomes apparent that a multitude of factors,... contribute to its development.

But we don't know the causes, hence we don't know if it is a "multitude of factors".

Why can't they just say 'we don't know'? Why is that so terrifying to them?

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I can't think of a single other issue on which our hallowed intellectual class has so consistently and persistently made such fools of themselves, and worse.

For some bizarre reason when it comes to ME/CFS, and psychosomatics in general, they just abandon evidence, reason, caution, and decency. (With the usual honourable exceptions, as always.)

The mind over matter meme appears to be the most seductive and addictive of them all.

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