Final answer:
Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia both include symptoms of extreme fatigue, muscle pain, and sleep disturbances. Diagnosis involves the evaluation of symptoms and ruling out other conditions due to the lack of definitive tests. These are often contested illnesses, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia can often overlap and include persistent fatigue, muscle pain, and sleep disturbances. Given the complexity of these conditions and the variability of symptoms, diagnosis requires a careful evaluation of the individual's medical history, exclusion of other potential causes, and the identification of key symptoms such as:
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- Unrefreshing sleep
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- Post-exertional malaise
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- Cognitive difficulties
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- Chronic pain
Fibromyalgia additionally includes specific symptoms such as widespread pain and tender points throughout the body.
There are no definitive tests for CFS or fibromyalgia, but tests might be ordered to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms like hypothyroidism, multiple sclerosis, or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Contested illnesses, like CFS and fibromyalgia, challenge medical professionals due to the lack of clear-cut diagnostic markers and the subjective nature of the symptoms, complicating the treatment approach.