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Post-COVID Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

ME/CFS-like syndrome after COVID-19 with post-exertional malaise as the cardinal feature

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Post-COVID Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

This phenotype meets the IOM/NAM 2015 ME/CFS criteria after acute COVID-19, with persistent fatigue not relieved by rest, post-exertional symptom exacerbation, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbance and frequent autonomic dysfunction.

Mechanistic hypotheses include persistent immune activation, viral reservoirs, mitochondrial dysfunction, microvascular endothelial damage and small fiber neuropathy.

Diagnosis is clinical after excluding alternative causes (anemia, hypothyroidism, sleep apnea, depression); validated questionnaires (DePaul, COMPASS-31, FSS) help track severity.

Symptoms

Severe fatigue limiting activities for over 6 months
Post-exertional malaise lasting 24-72 hours
Cognitive 'brain fog' and word-finding difficulty
Unrefreshing sleep and circadian disruption
Orthostatic intolerance and tachycardia

Risk Factors

Female sex and middle adulthood
Severe acute COVID-19 or prolonged symptoms
Pre-existing fibromyalgia or autonomic dysfunction
Psychological stress and prolonged inactivity
History of EBV or other post-viral fatigue

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent fatigue beyond 12 weeks after COVID-19
  • Crash episodes after minimal activity
  • New cognitive impairment affecting work
  • Sleep complaints with daytime dysfunction
  • Orthostatic dizziness or syncope

Treatment Methods

01
Energy management with pacing and activity envelope
02
Avoid graded exercise that triggers post-exertional malaise
03
Sleep hygiene and treatment of comorbid sleep disorders
04
Cognitive support and accommodations at work or school
05
Treatment of autonomic dysfunction (POTS protocols)
06
Multidisciplinary long-COVID clinic referral

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.