Cause 5. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: The Unseen Energy Drainer
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex, long-term illness characterized by extreme fatigue. This fatigue is not relieved by rest and can be worsened by physical or mental activity. It’s a profound, debilitating tiredness that can affect every aspect of an individual’s life, leading to excessive sleeping and daytime sleepiness.
Individuals with CFS often experience post-exertional malaise (PEM), where their symptoms get significantly worse after any physical or mental exertion. This can lead to an irresistible need for sleep or rest, often leading to excessive sleep.
Moreover, CFS can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to unrefreshing sleep despite spending many hours in bed. This exacerbates daytime sleepiness and fatigue, creating a vicious cycle of sleep and fatigue. (5)
