Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

Overview

A healthcare provider will diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome after a physical exam and mental health evaluation. There isn’t a specific test to diagnose CFS, but tests (like blood or urine tests) help your healthcare provider look for possible causes and rule out conditions with similar symptoms.

The diagnostic criteria for CFS, or the things that your healthcare provider will look for during an exam, include:

Severe fatigue that lasts at least six months. Fatigue doesn’t improve with rest or sleep.
Difficulty getting restful sleep.
Fatigue that gets worse after mental or physical activity.
Orthostatic intolerance (inability to sit up without feeling symptoms) and/or problems with cognitive function (thinking and memory).

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

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