Summary

• Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex illness where extreme tiredness and other symptoms reduce your ability to function.
• These symptoms get worse after exercise or mental effort and don't improve with rest or sleep.
• No one knows what causes ME/CFS.
• There's no cure for ME/CFS but your doctor can suggest treatments that can help improve your symptoms.

These key facts are from healthdirect.gov.au (accessed 24 Feb 2024). Visit the healthdirect website for more information about Chronic fatigue syndrome (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis).

Relevant tests

There is no single test to diagnose ME/CFS.

ME/CFS is diagnosed by a combination of clinical features, medical history, and tests that rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Your doctor will order tests to check for a range of possible health issues.