Discover the ins and outs of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), a debilitating condition affecting 3.3 million adults in the U.S. Explore its symptoms, potential causes, and the challenges faced by those living with CFS. Stay informed about ongoing research and strategies for managing this complex and often misunderstood disorder.
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#ChronicFatigueSyndrome #HealthExplained #MedicalResearch #CFSAwareness #USNews #OneindiaNews
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NewsTranscript
00:00 Health officials unveiled the first nationally representative estimate of US adults grappling
00:12 with chronic fatigue syndrome, CFS, and that is a staggering 3.3 million people.
00:18 This surpasses previous estimates potentially influenced by patients with long-term COVID,
00:24 highlighting the condition's prevalence. Characterized by six months of severe exhaustion,
00:30 unrelieved bed rest, CFS brings with it pain, brain fog, and worsening symptoms after activity.
00:38 Despite affecting millions, there's no quick diagnosis, no cure, no definitive test.
00:45 Nearly four decades ago, CFS gained attention, but skepticism remained. Some dismissed it
00:50 as "yuppie flu," a misconception that still persists. Patients like Hannah Powell faced
00:56 years of misdiagnoses being labeled as hypochondriac and battling anxiety and depression accusations.
01:05 The CDC's 2021-22 survey involving 57,000 adults reflects a demographic shift. CFS transcends
01:14 gender and race, contradicting previous assumptions. Notably, it affects poor individuals' more
01:21 challenging stereotypes.
01:24 Why the disparity in recognition? Some believe that traditionally diagnosed patients have
01:30 easier access to health care, fostering belief in their fatigue struggles. Diagnosing CFS
01:36 remains elusive, relying on patients' memories without medical record verification. This
01:42 could lead to over-counting, but experts believe only a fraction of CFS cases are diagnosed.
01:48 Dr. Daniel Klaw notes the reluctance of diagnosis given the lack of approved drugs or treatment
01:55 guidelines.
01:56 Interestingly, the tally may include long COVID patients experiencing prolonged exhaustion,
02:02 a condition recognized more swiftly than CFS. While symptoms align, long COVID enjoys broader
02:09 acceptance. Some patients found stability through treatments, yet the journey of care
02:15 remains challenging. Powell, like many others, opts to mention long COVID for quicker belief
02:21 and understanding.
02:22 Powell, a high school athlete, came down with an inlays during a trip to Belize before senior
02:29 year. Doctors thought it was malaria and she seemed to recover. However, she developed
02:35 persistent exhaustion, had trouble sleeping, and had recurrent vomiting. She gradually
02:40 had to stop playing sports and had trouble doing schoolwork as well. As she said, "After
02:47 five years, she was diagnosed with chronic fatigue and began to achieve some stability
02:53 through regular infusions of fluids and medications."
02:57 As we navigate the complexities of chronic fatigue syndrome, dispelling myths and fostering
03:03 awareness is crucial. Millions silently endure seeking acknowledgement and understanding.
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