How to Use the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Risk Checker
Chronic fatigue syndrome (myalgic encephalomyelitis, ME/CFS) is a condition involving severe fatigue that doesn't improve with rest and lasts 6 months or longer — distinct from simply feeling tired lately. This self-check asks how long the fatigue has lasted, along with four hallmark features: post-exertional malaise (symptoms worsening the day after activity), unrefreshing sleep, cognitive impairment (brain fog), and orthostatic intolerance (dizziness after standing) — then combines them into a reference-only risk level.
Ordinary fatigue usually improves with a few good nights of rest or a restful weekend. Post-exertional malaise, on the other hand, doesn't respond well to rest alone, and even a light walk or household chores can trigger symptoms that worsen the next day. When that's combined with sleep that never feels refreshing, difficulty concentrating, and dizziness from standing too long, that pattern is a stronger signal worth investigating further than ordinary tiredness.
This result is only a reference-level self-check and does not replace a medical diagnosis. Chronic fatigue is also a common symptom of thyroid dysfunction, anemia, sleep apnea, and depression, so a high result should prompt bloodwork and a proper evaluation from a doctor rather than settling for a self-assessment — getting the underlying cause identified is the key step toward effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ordinary fatigue recovers with rest, but chronic fatigue syndrome doesn't ease with rest alone, and even light activity can worsen symptoms the following day. It also tends to last 6 months or more.
No. This tool is a reference-only self-check and does not replace a medical diagnosis. Thyroid conditions, anemia, and other causes are possible, so testing and a doctor's evaluation are needed to confirm.
There's no single guaranteed cure, but symptom management, pacing activity, and treating any underlying cause can often ease symptoms. Working with a doctor on a personalized plan matters.