Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), is a disabling and complex disorder, and according to the U.S. Centers for Control and Prevention (CDC), is estimated to affect up to 2.5 million Americans. Up to 90 percent of sufferers are undiagnosed. The CDC estimates the disease costs the U.S. economy about $17 to $24 billion annually in medical bills and lost income.
The condition causes extreme physical and mental fatigue that lasts for at least six months and more often affects women than men. Symptoms worsen with physical or mental activity and, unlike normal experiences of fatigue, don’t substantially improve with rest.
