QUOTE : Many people confuse “chronic fatigue” (which is a symptom of many chronic conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or lupus) or “general tiredness” (which is lifestyle-related), with the specific illness “chronic fatigue syndrome” (ME/CFS). To clarify the differences, here are some of the major symptoms of ME/CFS:<br /><br />- unexplained physical and mental fatigue for an extended period of time<br />- post-exertional malaise (meaning an inappropriate loss of physical and mental stamina and a worsening of symptoms after any effort)<br />- sleep dysfunction<br />- pain<br />- neurological/cognitive manifestations<br />- autonomic manifestations, such as orthostatic intolerance<br />- neuroendocrine symptoms, such as subnormal body temperature<br />- immune system changes, such as recurrent flu-like symptoms.