Article: Sufferers find chronic fatigue syndrome tiring to explain

Chicagoan Carole Howard suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition causing constant exhaustion and physical pain.

But explaining her illness to doctors and friends is often more frustrating than enduring it.

"It was impossible to get a diagnosis. It was terrible," said Howard, 63.

Until she found out in 1985 that her symptoms had a name, she had met. with numerous doctors only to receive differing and conflicting diagnoses.

More than 1 million Americans suffer from the chronic fatigue syndrome, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. But misunderstanding and skepticism among medical professionals about, the illness still make it difficult for sufferers to find help.

Exact ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!