Can Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Be Treated?

Do you feel tired all the time, no matter how much you rest? For some people, this isn’t just stress or poor sleep. It may be a complex condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also called myalgic encephalitis (ME).

Living with chronic fatigue can feel overwhelming, frustrating, and even isolating. The good news? While there’s no single cure, there are treatments and management strategies that can make a real difference in improving your energy, health, and quality of life.

What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-term condition characterized by profound, unexplained fatigue lasting six months or more. Unlike normal tiredness, this fatigue:

• Doesn’t improve with rest
• Worsens with physical or mental exertion
• Significantly interferes with daily life

CFS is also referred to as myalgic encephalitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID).

At Manhattan Primary Care, we often see patients who describe feeling wiped out after even small activities, like running errands or attending a meeting. This is very different from occasional tiredness, it’s a disabling condition that needs medical evaluation. Our team may recommend a thorough annual physical or preventive care visit to begin the process.

What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

The hallmark of CFS is persistent fatigue not relieved by rest. But it comes with a wide range of other symptoms, including:

• Cognitive issues: brain fog, difficulty concentrating, memory problems
• Physical discomfort: muscle pain, joint pain without swelling, headaches, sore throat, tender lymph nodes
• Sleep disturbances: waking up unrefreshed, feeling sleepy all day even after a full night’s sleep
• Post-exertional malaise (PEM): worsening of symptoms after even minor activity

Many patients also report overlaps with chronic fatigue and depression, making it harder to cope emotionally.

What Causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

One of the most frustrating aspects of CFS is that its exact cause remains unknown. Research suggests several possible triggers and risk factors:

• Viral infections (such as Epstein-Barr virus)
• Immune system dysfunction
• Hormonal imbalances
• Chronic stress or trauma

In many cases, CFS overlaps with conditions like chronic pain and fatigue or chronic fatigue and depression, suggesting a complex interaction of physical and emotional factors.

Can Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Be Treated?

CFS is not curable, but it is treatable. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but symptom management helps many patients regain stability and quality of life.

Treatment approaches include:

• Lifestyle strategies: pacing activities, structured rest, gentle stretching or yoga
• Medications: to ease pain, improve sleep, or address coexisting depression/anxiety
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): to develop coping skills and reduce stress
• Graded Exercise Therapy (GET): once widely recommended, but now considered controversial; it may help some but worsen symptoms in others

At Manhattan Primary Care, we focus on individualized treatment plans—tailored to your specific symptoms and overall health. Our chronic disease management team often works closely with patients to adjust plans over time, and telehealth services make it easier to maintain follow-ups without added stress.

Coping With Chronic Pain and Fatigue

Because CFS often comes with both chronic pain and fatigue, a holistic approach is essential. Practical coping strategies include:

• Energy management: prioritizing tasks, pacing activities
• Healthy diet and hydration: supporting energy balance, often guided by weight management support
• Sleep hygiene: consistent bedtime, screen-free evenings, calming pre-sleep routine—sometimes requiring evaluation through our sleep disorder treatment
• Mental health support: therapy, counseling, support groups

At Manhattan Primary Care, we often recommend a multidisciplinary approach—addressing sleep, mood, and physical health together for the best outcomes.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a physician if:

• Fatigue persists for weeks or months without a clear cause
• Symptoms include chronic pain, depression, or ongoing sleep issues
• Daily life, work, or relationships are significantly affected

Early diagnosis helps rule out other medical issues (like thyroid disorders, anemia, or sleep apnea) and allows for tailored treatment strategies.

Conclusion

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex, long-term condition. While it may not be curable, it is treatable. With the right mix of lifestyle changes, medical support, and coping strategies, many patients can achieve meaningful improvements in daily life.

If you’re constantly exhausted and suspect chronic fatigue syndrome, don’t wait. At Manhattan Primary Care, our experienced team provides compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward reclaiming your energy and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can chronic fatigue syndrome affect children and teenagers?

Yes, although it is more common in adults, CFS can appear in younger patients and may interfere with school, sports, and social life.

Does the weather influence chronic fatigue symptoms?

Some people notice their fatigue, pain, or brain fog worsen in extreme heat, humidity, or during seasonal changes.

Is chronic fatigue syndrome linked to gut health?

Emerging research suggests that imbalances in gut bacteria may play a role in immune system dysfunction and fatigue, though more studies are needed.

Can travel or jet lag worsen chronic fatigue?

Yes, disruptions in circadian rhythm from long-distance travel can intensify fatigue and other symptoms in people with CFS.

How does chronic fatigue syndrome impact work and career planning?

CFS can affect productivity and reliability at work, and many patients benefit from workplace accommodations or flexible schedules to manage symptoms effectively.

Sources

1. Health Line – CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
2. Web MD – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Medications: What Works and Why
3. Johns Hopkins Medicine – Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)
4. Medical News Today – What to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health-related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.