CFS Myths

In the case of chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, myths periodically circulate or emerge (perhaps because the cause of the condition has not been identified and the effects of CFS on the body are not well understood). Some CFS myths currently circulating include the notion that people with CFS lose their fingerprints. Other myths concerning CFS suggest that there is a link between chronic fatigue syndrome and nutritional deficiencies and suicides. These myths involving CFS are not true.

CFS Information

CFS Myths: An Overview

Periodically, new invalidated beliefs about the cures and causes of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) will appear. Perhaps these "myths" develop because the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome has not been identified and its effect on the body is not well understood. These beliefs may be based on one or more recent reports from the peer-reviewed scientific literature, or they may evolve from the anecdotal remarks of clinicians or scientists at medical meetings. In some cases, the origin is obscure. Even if these beliefs are published in scientific literature, it's important to remember that all published work needs to be verified and expanded on by others before it can be applied with confidence in clinical situations.

Current CFS Myths

Myths concerning CFS that are currently circulating include notions such as the following:

Patients with CFS lose their fingerprints. In reality, there is no evidence of this.
Patients with CFS suffer from a nutritional deficiency. Again, there is no scientific evidence of this.
Patients with CFS are suicidal. Suicides of CFS patients have been reported, but the rate of occurrence has not been well studied, and it is not known whether the rate is higher or lower than what would be expected in the general population.

(CFS Myths Continued: Page 2)