Fatigue and Activity Patterns of People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Abstract

Although fatigue is the central symptom of people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), relatively few reports in the literature examine the severity of this fatigue or the activity patterns of people with CFS. Using the Fatigue Severity Scale, the Nottingham Health Profile, the Human Activity Profile, and the Activity Record, severity of fatigue, health status, and activity patterns were investigated. People with CFS reported significantly higher levels of fatigue, poorer health status, and engagement in less energy-demanding activities ( P<0.001) than people without CFS. Those with CFS spent 16.18% (standard deviation [SD]=9.62) of their time resting compared with only 2.28% (SD=3.26) of the time spent by those without CFS ( P<0.05). Time spent in productive activities (household activities and work) was also significantly different, with the CFS group less involved ( P<0.05). This severity of fatigue and limitations in activity patterns warrant further attention. Frequent rest periods and energy conservation training may benefit these clients.