ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0.1 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| URL | https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html | |||||||||
| Last Crawled | 2026-04-21 21:15:09 (1 day ago) | |||||||||
| First Indexed | 2018-07-14 08:29:06 (7 years ago) | |||||||||
| HTTP Status Code | 200 | |||||||||
| Content | ||||||||||
| Meta Title | Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) | Cedars-Sinai | |||||||||
| Meta Description | Learn details about chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a debilitating condition marked by profound tiredness, regardless of bed rest. | |||||||||
| Meta Canonical | null | |||||||||
| Boilerpipe Text | Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Not what you're looking for?
What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition marked by profound tiredness, regardless
of sleep. It's also called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Symptoms often get worse
with
minimal physical or mental activity. CFS can happen suddenly and last for years. Females
are more affected than males.
What causes chronic fatigue syndrome?
The
cause of CFS isn't known. It may be from a viral infection in some people. But the
exact
cause is almost always unclear. Other possible causes being studied are genetics and
immune system problems.
Who is at risk for chronic fatigue syndrome?
Because the cause of CFS isn't known, it’s hard to know what might put someone at
risk
for getting the condition. But certain factors are seen more often in people with
CFS.
These include:
Being
female.
CFS happens up to 2 to 4 times more often in women than in men.
Age.
CFS
often affects middle-aged people. But people of any age can get it.
What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Symptoms of CFS are often nonspecific and can be seen with viruses or depression.
Symptoms of long COVID are often compared to CFS. Symptoms may be a bit different
for
each person. The most common symptoms are:
Sensitivity to light.
Headache.
Tender
lymph nodes.
Fatigue
and weakness.
Muscle
and joint pain.
Inability to focus.
Feelings of exhaustion after putting out physical or mental
energy.
Insomnia.
Forgetfulness.
Mood
swings.
Confusion.
Low-grade fever.
Depression.
Many of these symptoms may be caused by other health problems. Always
talk with your health care provider for a diagnosis.
How is chronic fatigue syndrome
diagnosed?
A
CFS diagnosis must rule out other possible conditions. According to the Institute
of
Medicine, a CFS diagnosis requires all three of these symptoms:
Having to cut
back greatly on the activities you did before the illness.
Severe and chronic
tiredness must have lasted for more than 6 months, and other health conditions have
been ruled out. Rest does not ease these symptoms.
Severe
tiredness after physical activity.
The fatigue gets worse after physical or
mental stress that you could handle before the illness started.
Sleep that doesn't refresh you.
In
addition, you must have one of these symptoms:
Trouble thinking
that gets
worse under pressure.
Orthostatic intolerance.
This means standing upright makes symptoms worse. Lying back down or raising
(elevating) your feet may ease the symptoms. But it doesn't fully get rid of
them.
How is chronic fatigue syndrome treated?
There is no known cure for CFS. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms.
Treatment may include:
Medicine, including corticosteroids and antidepressants.
Activity management, including a careful balancing of rest and
activity to prevent flare-ups.
Light-intensity aerobic exercise, but not moderate to vigorously intense physical
activity.
Dietary
supplements and herbal products.
Psychotherapy and supportive counseling.
Living with chronic fatigue syndrome
There is no known cure for CFS at this time. Dealing with the severe fatigue can be
very challenging. It's important to work with your health care provider to find
treatments that help you. Some people find counseling or support groups helpful.
When should I call my
doctor?
Contact your health care provider if your symptoms get worse or you have new
symptoms.
Key points about chronic fatigue syndrome
Chronic
fatigue syndrome is marked by profound tiredness.
Symptoms often get worse with physical or mental activity.
In
addition to severe tiredness, symptoms include light sensitivity, headache, muscle
and joint pain, trouble concentrating, mood swings, and depression.
Treatments may include medicines, exercise, supplements, and counseling.
Next steps
Here are some tips to help you get the
most from a visit to your health care provider:
Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells
you.
At the
visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments,
or
tests. Also, write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
Know
why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help you. Also know
what the side effects are and when they should be reported.
Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
Know
why a test or procedure is advised and what the results could mean.
Know
what to expect if you don't take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that
visit.
Know how
you can contact your health care provider if you have questions, especially after
office hours and on weekends.
Medical Reviewer:
Sravani Chintapalli
Medical Reviewer:
Sabrina Felson MD
Medical Reviewer:
Rita Sather RN
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Not what you're looking for? | |||||||||
| Markdown | Skip to Main Content
[](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/home.html)
[For Patients](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/) [For Providers](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/med-pros.html) [Health Sciences University](https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/health-sciences-university.html)
[1-800-CEDARS-1](tel:18002332771)
English
English
Select a Language
[English](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [عربى](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [简体中文](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [繁體中文](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [فارسي](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [עִברִית](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [日本語](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [한국어](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [Русский](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [Español](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html) [Tagalog](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html)
Patients
[Home](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/)
[Get Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/get-care.html)
Get Care
Close
[24/7 Virtual Care](https://csconnect.cedars-sinai.org/) [Urgent Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/urgent-care.html) [Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/primary-care.html) [Pediatric Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/pediatrics/specialties/primary-care.html) [Routine Gynecology](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/obstetrics-gynecology/specialties/gynecology.html) [Virtual Second Opinion](https://secondopinion.cedars-sinai.org/)
[Browse All](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/get-care.html)
[Find a Doctor](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/find-a-doctor.html)
[Locations](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html)
Locations
Close
[See All Locations](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html) [Hospitals](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Hospital%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Hospital%2522%257D%255D&offset=0&limit=10&retrieveFacets=true) [Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=Adult+Primary+Care) [Urgent Care Facilities](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Urgent%2520Care%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Urgent%2520Care%2522%257D%255D) [Emergency Rooms](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Emergency%2520Room%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Emergency%2520Room%2522%257D%255D) [Surgery Centers](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=surgery) [Medical Offices](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=medical%20offices) [Imaging Facilities](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=imaging) [Labs](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Laboratory%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Laboratory%2522%257D%255D&)
[ Find a Location](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html)
[Specialties](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs.html)
Specialties
Close
[Cancer](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/cancer.html) [Digestive & Liver Diseases](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/digestive-liver-diseases.html) [Ear, Nose & Throat](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/ear-nose-throat.html) [Heart](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/heart.html) [Lung](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/lung.html) [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/neurology-neurosurgery.html) [Obstetrics & Gynecology](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/obstetrics-gynecology.html) [Orthopaedics](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/ortho.html) [Pediatrics at Guerin Children's](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/pediatrics.html) [Spine](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/spine.html) [Surgery](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/general-surgery.html)
[Transplant](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/transplant.html) [Urology](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/urology.html) [Women's Health](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/womens-health.html)
[Browse All](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs.html)
[Records & Billing](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records.html)
Records & Billing
Close
[Medical Records Request](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/medical-records-request.html) [Insurance & Billing](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records.html) [Pay Your Bill](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/app.html) [Advanced Healthcare Directive](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/support-services/services/healthcare-ethics/advance-directives.html) [Initiate a Request](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/medical-records-request.html) [Help Paying Your Bill](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/help-paying-your-bill.html)
[ Sign In (My CS-Link)](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/app.html)
[Health Equity](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-equity.html)
[Sign In](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/app.html)
For Patients
[Home](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/)
Get Care
Get Care
- [24/7 Virtual Care](https://csconnect.cedars-sinai.org/)
- [Urgent Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/urgent-care.html)
- [Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/primary-care.html)
- [Pediatric Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/pediatrics/specialties/primary-care.html)
- [Routine Gynecology](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/obstetrics-gynecology/specialties/gynecology.html)
- [Virtual Second Opinion](https://secondopinion.cedars-sinai.org/)
[Browse All](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/get-care.html)
[Find a Doctor](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/find-a-doctor.html)
Locations
Locations
- [See All Locations](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html)
- [Hospitals](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Hospital%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Hospital%2522%257D%255D&offset=0&limit=10&retrieveFacets=true)
- [Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=Adult+Primary+Care)
- [Urgent Care Facilities](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Urgent%2520Care%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Urgent%2520Care%2522%257D%255D)
- [Emergency Rooms](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Emergency%2520Room%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Emergency%2520Room%2522%257D%255D)
- [Surgery Centers](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=surgery)
- [Medical Offices](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=medical%20offices)
- [Imaging Facilities](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?input=imaging)
- [Labs](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations.html?filteredBy=%255B%257B%2522filter%2522%253A%257B%2522kind%2522%253A%2522fieldValue%2522%252C%2522matcher%2522%253A%2522%2524eq%2522%252C%2522fieldId%2522%253A%2522c_locationCategory%2522%252C%2522value%2522%253A%2522Laboratory%2522%257D%252C%2522selected%2522%253Atrue%252C%2522displayName%2522%253A%2522Laboratory%2522%257D%255D&)
Specialties
Specialties
- [Cancer](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/cancer.html)
- [Digestive & Liver Diseases](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/digestive-liver-diseases.html)
- [Ear, Nose & Throat](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/ear-nose-throat.html)
- [Heart](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/heart.html)
- [Lung](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/lung.html)
- [Neurology & Neurosurgery](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/neurology-neurosurgery.html)
- [Obstetrics & Gynecology](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/obstetrics-gynecology.html)
- [Orthopaedics](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/ortho.html)
- [Pediatrics at Guerin Children's](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/pediatrics.html)
- [Spine](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/spine.html)
- [Surgery](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/general-surgery.html)
- [Transplant](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/transplant.html)
- [Urology](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/urology.html)
- [Women's Health](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/womens-health.html)
[Browse All](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs.html)
Records & Billing
Records & Billing
- [Medical Records Request](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/medical-records-request.html)
- [Insurance & Billing](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records.html)
- [Pay Your Bill](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/app.html)
- [Advanced Healthcare Directive](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/support-services/services/healthcare-ethics/advance-directives.html)
- [Initiate a Request](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/medical-records-request.html)
- [Help Paying Your Bill](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/help-paying-your-bill.html)
[Health Equity](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-equity.html)
[Sign In](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/app.html)
[For Patients](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/)
[For Providers](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/med-pros.html)
[Health Sciences University](https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/health-sciences-university.html)
[1-800-CEDARS-1](tel:18002332771)
English
[Cedars-Sinai](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/)
[Health Library](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library.html) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
[Conditions, Treatments & Diagnostics](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/conditions-and-treatments.html)
[Symptom Checker](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/symptom-checker.html)
[Video Library](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/video-library.html)
[Prevention Guidelines](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/prevention-guidelines.html)
[Health Calculators](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/health-calculators.html)
[Risk Assessments](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/risk-assessments.html)
# Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Not what you're looking for?
[Start New Search](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library.html)
[ABOUT](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html#what-is-disease) [CAUSES](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html#causes) [DIAGNOSIS](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html#how-diagnosed) [TREATMENT](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html#treatment) [NEXT STEPS](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html#action-alert)
## What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition marked by profound tiredness, regardless of sleep. It's also called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Symptoms often get worse with minimal physical or mental activity. CFS can happen suddenly and last for years. Females are more affected than males.
## What causes chronic fatigue syndrome?
The cause of CFS isn't known. It may be from a viral infection in some people. But the exact cause is almost always unclear. Other possible causes being studied are genetics and immune system problems.
## Who is at risk for chronic fatigue syndrome?
Because the cause of CFS isn't known, it’s hard to know what might put someone at risk for getting the condition. But certain factors are seen more often in people with CFS. These include:
- **Being female.** CFS happens up to 2 to 4 times more often in women than in men.
- **Age.** CFS often affects middle-aged people. But people of any age can get it.
## What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Symptoms of CFS are often nonspecific and can be seen with viruses or depression. Symptoms of long COVID are often compared to CFS. Symptoms may be a bit different for each person. The most common symptoms are:
- Sensitivity to light.
- Headache.
- Tender lymph nodes.
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Inability to focus.
- Feelings of exhaustion after putting out physical or mental energy.
- Insomnia.
- Forgetfulness.
- Mood swings.
- Confusion.
- Low-grade fever.
- Depression.
Many of these symptoms may be caused by other health problems. Always talk with your health care provider for a diagnosis.
## How is chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosed?
A CFS diagnosis must rule out other possible conditions. According to the Institute of Medicine, a CFS diagnosis requires all three of these symptoms:
- **Having to cut back greatly on the activities you did before the illness.** Severe and chronic tiredness must have lasted for more than 6 months, and other health conditions have been ruled out. Rest does not ease these symptoms.
- **Severe tiredness after physical activity.** The fatigue gets worse after physical or mental stress that you could handle before the illness started.
- **Sleep that doesn't refresh you.**
In addition, you must have one of these symptoms:
- **Trouble thinking** that gets worse under pressure.
- **Orthostatic intolerance.** This means standing upright makes symptoms worse. Lying back down or raising (elevating) your feet may ease the symptoms. But it doesn't fully get rid of them.
## How is chronic fatigue syndrome treated?
There is no known cure for CFS. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms.
Treatment may include:
- Medicine, including corticosteroids and antidepressants.
- Activity management, including a careful balancing of rest and activity to prevent flare-ups.
- Light-intensity aerobic exercise, but not moderate to vigorously intense physical activity.
- Dietary supplements and herbal products.
- Psychotherapy and supportive counseling.
## Living with chronic fatigue syndrome
There is no known cure for CFS at this time. Dealing with the severe fatigue can be very challenging. It's important to work with your health care provider to find treatments that help you. Some people find counseling or support groups helpful.
## When should I call my doctor?
Contact your health care provider if your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms.
## Key points about chronic fatigue syndrome
- Chronic fatigue syndrome is marked by profound tiredness.
- Symptoms often get worse with physical or mental activity.
- In addition to severe tiredness, symptoms include light sensitivity, headache, muscle and joint pain, trouble concentrating, mood swings, and depression.
- Treatments may include medicines, exercise, supplements, and counseling.
## Next steps
Here are some tips to help you get the most from a visit to your health care provider:
- Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
- Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
- Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
- At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also, write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
- Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are and when they should be reported.
- Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
- Know why a test or procedure is advised and what the results could mean.
- Know what to expect if you don't take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
- If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
- Know how you can contact your health care provider if you have questions, especially after office hours and on weekends.
Medical Reviewer: Sravani Chintapalli
Medical Reviewer: Sabrina Felson MD
Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Not what you're looking for?
[Start New Search](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library.html)
Looking for a Physician?
Choose a doctor and schedule an appointment.
[Find a Doctor](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/find-a-doctor.html)
[Looking for Virtual Care?](https://csconnect.cedars-sinai.org/?utm_source=cs_website&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign_name=web_homepage&utm_content=cs_connect_launch)
Connect with providers for illnesses like flus, UTIs and rashes (ages 3+) or chronic conditions like asthma, weight management and diabetes (ages 18+).
[Get Care Now](https://csconnect.cedars-sinai.org/app?utm_source=cs_website&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign_name=web_health_library&utm_content=banner "Get Care Now")
Want More Information?
Cedars-Sinai has a range of comprehensive treatment options.
[See Our Programs](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs.html)
### Need Help?
[1-800-CEDARS-1](tel:1-800-233-2771)
(1-800-233-2771)
Monday‑Friday, 8 am‑5 pm PT
[Schedule a Callback](https://cedarssinai.my.salesforce-sites.com/ClickToCall)
###### Expert Care for Life™ Starts Here
[Adult Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/primary-care.html)
[Pediatric Primary Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/pediatrics/specialties/primary-care.html)
[Urgent Care](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/urgent-care.html)
###### Need Help?
[1-800-CEDARS-1](tel:1-800-233-2771)
(1-800-233-2771)
[Schedule a Callback](https://cedarssinai.my.salesforce-sites.com/ClickToCall)
###### Looking for a Physician
Choose a doctor and schedule an appointment.
[Find a Doctor](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/find-a-doctor.html)
[Cedars-Sinai](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/)
[Health Library](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library.html) Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Contribute
- [Giving](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/giving.html)
- [Give Now](https://support.cedars-sinai.edu/give/170230/#!/donation/checkout)
- [Volunteer](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/volunteer-services.html)
- [Patient & Family Advisors](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/patient-and-family-advisors.html)
Learn More
- [About Us](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/about.html)
- [Visiting Cedars-Sinai Medical Center](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/locations/cedars-sinai-main-campus-89/visiting-a-patient.html)
- [Quality Measures](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/quality-measures.html)
- [Diversity & Inclusion](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/diversity-and-inclusion.html)
- [Health Equity](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-equity.html)
- [Supply Chain](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/supply-chain.html)
- [Community Health](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/community.html)
For Professionals
- [Resources](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/med-pros.html)
- [Nursing](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/med-pros/nursing.html)
- [Staff Login](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/staff.html)
- [Practitioner Primary Source Verification](https://onlinecredentialing.csmc.edu/psv/)
Connect
- [Contact Us](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/contact.html)
- [Newsroom](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom)
- [Stories & Insights](https://www.cedars-sinai.org/stories-and-insights)
- [Events](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/events.html)
International
- [International Patients](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/international-patients.html)
- [Global Collaborations](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/global-collaborations.html)
Patient Tools
- [Symptom Checker](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/symptom-checker.html)
- [Conditions Library](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library.html)
- [Patient Rights](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/support-services/patient-rights.html)
- [Help Paying Your Bill](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/billing-insurance-records/help-paying-your-bill.html)
Join Our Team
- [Careers](https://careers.cshs.org/)
[call us 1-800-CEDARS-1](tel:18002332771)
Follow Us
- [Join us on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/CedarsSinai "Facebook")
- [Watch us on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/CEDARSSINAI "YouTube")
- [Follow us on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/cedarssinai/ "Instagram")
- [Connect with us on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cedars-sinai-medical-center/mycompany/ "LinkedIn")
get our app
[](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cedars_sinai.mycslink&hl=en) [](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cedars-sinai-my-cs-link/id1034088603)
© 2026 Cedars-Sinai. All rights reserved. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
- [Patient Rights](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/support-services/patient-rights.html)
- [Terms and Conditions](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/terms-conditions.html)
- [Privacy Policy](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/privacy-policy.html)
- [Nondiscrimination](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/nondiscrimination.html)
- [Accessibility Statement](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/accessibility-statement.html)
- [Price Transparency](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/price-transparency.html)
- [Sitemap](http://www.cedars-sinai.org/sitemap.html) | |||||||||
| Readable Markdown | ## Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Not what you're looking for?
## What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition marked by profound tiredness, regardless of sleep. It's also called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). Symptoms often get worse with minimal physical or mental activity. CFS can happen suddenly and last for years. Females are more affected than males.
## What causes chronic fatigue syndrome?
The cause of CFS isn't known. It may be from a viral infection in some people. But the exact cause is almost always unclear. Other possible causes being studied are genetics and immune system problems.
## Who is at risk for chronic fatigue syndrome?
Because the cause of CFS isn't known, it’s hard to know what might put someone at risk for getting the condition. But certain factors are seen more often in people with CFS. These include:
- **Being female.** CFS happens up to 2 to 4 times more often in women than in men.
- **Age.** CFS often affects middle-aged people. But people of any age can get it.
## What are the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Symptoms of CFS are often nonspecific and can be seen with viruses or depression. Symptoms of long COVID are often compared to CFS. Symptoms may be a bit different for each person. The most common symptoms are:
- Sensitivity to light.
- Headache.
- Tender lymph nodes.
- Fatigue and weakness.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Inability to focus.
- Feelings of exhaustion after putting out physical or mental energy.
- Insomnia.
- Forgetfulness.
- Mood swings.
- Confusion.
- Low-grade fever.
- Depression.
Many of these symptoms may be caused by other health problems. Always talk with your health care provider for a diagnosis.
## How is chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosed?
A CFS diagnosis must rule out other possible conditions. According to the Institute of Medicine, a CFS diagnosis requires all three of these symptoms:
- **Having to cut back greatly on the activities you did before the illness.** Severe and chronic tiredness must have lasted for more than 6 months, and other health conditions have been ruled out. Rest does not ease these symptoms.
- **Severe tiredness after physical activity.** The fatigue gets worse after physical or mental stress that you could handle before the illness started.
- **Sleep that doesn't refresh you.**
In addition, you must have one of these symptoms:
- **Trouble thinking** that gets worse under pressure.
- **Orthostatic intolerance.** This means standing upright makes symptoms worse. Lying back down or raising (elevating) your feet may ease the symptoms. But it doesn't fully get rid of them.
## How is chronic fatigue syndrome treated?
There is no known cure for CFS. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms.
Treatment may include:
- Medicine, including corticosteroids and antidepressants.
- Activity management, including a careful balancing of rest and activity to prevent flare-ups.
- Light-intensity aerobic exercise, but not moderate to vigorously intense physical activity.
- Dietary supplements and herbal products.
- Psychotherapy and supportive counseling.
## Living with chronic fatigue syndrome
There is no known cure for CFS at this time. Dealing with the severe fatigue can be very challenging. It's important to work with your health care provider to find treatments that help you. Some people find counseling or support groups helpful.
## When should I call my doctor?
Contact your health care provider if your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms.
## Key points about chronic fatigue syndrome
- Chronic fatigue syndrome is marked by profound tiredness.
- Symptoms often get worse with physical or mental activity.
- In addition to severe tiredness, symptoms include light sensitivity, headache, muscle and joint pain, trouble concentrating, mood swings, and depression.
- Treatments may include medicines, exercise, supplements, and counseling.
## Next steps
Here are some tips to help you get the most from a visit to your health care provider:
- Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
- Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
- Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
- At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also, write down any new instructions your provider gives you.
- Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are and when they should be reported.
- Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
- Know why a test or procedure is advised and what the results could mean.
- Know what to expect if you don't take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
- If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
- Know how you can contact your health care provider if you have questions, especially after office hours and on weekends.
Medical Reviewer: Sravani Chintapalli
Medical Reviewer: Sabrina Felson MD
Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Not what you're looking for? | |||||||||
| ML Classification | ||||||||||
| ML Categories |
Raw JSON{
"/Health": 999,
"/Health/Health_Conditions": 985,
"/Health/Health_Conditions/Neurological_Conditions": 578
} | |||||||||
| ML Page Types |
Raw JSON{
"/Article": 982,
"/Article/Definitions": 606
} | |||||||||
| ML Intent Types |
Raw JSON{
"Informational": 999
} | |||||||||
| Content Metadata | ||||||||||
| Language | en-us | |||||||||
| Author | null | |||||||||
| Publish Time | not set | |||||||||
| Original Publish Time | 2018-07-14 08:29:06 (7 years ago) | |||||||||
| Republished | No | |||||||||
| Word Count (Total) | 1,381 | |||||||||
| Word Count (Content) | 827 | |||||||||
| Links | ||||||||||
| External Links | 14 | |||||||||
| Internal Links | 103 | |||||||||
| Technical SEO | ||||||||||
| Meta Nofollow | No | |||||||||
| Meta Noarchive | No | |||||||||
| JS Rendered | Yes | |||||||||
| Redirect Target | null | |||||||||
| Performance | ||||||||||
| Download Time (ms) | 240 | |||||||||
| TTFB (ms) | 235 | |||||||||
| Download Size (bytes) | 23,963 | |||||||||
| Shard | 147 (laksa) | |||||||||
| Root Hash | 18124545878044281147 | |||||||||
| Unparsed URL | org,cedars-sinai!www,/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/c/chronic-fatigue-syndrome.html s443 | |||||||||