Tanushree Dutta reveals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome: What is it, how it affects daily life?

Tanushree Dutta's emotional video has brought the very prevalent problem of chronic fatigue syndrome to the fore, which often goes unnoticed (Images: @iamtanushreeduttaofficial/Instagram)

Actress Tanushree Dutta of Aashiq Banaya Aapne fame opened up about being harassed at home for the past five years with loud noises, banging on the door, and maids stealing things. The actress shared that all her attempts to talk with the management have gone in vain, and she now uses headphones to distract herself.

She added, “Today I was so unwell. As you guys know, I have developed Chronic Fatigue Syndrome due to dealing with constant stress and anxiety for the last 5 years, and this was going on all day and evening, way past acceptable and allowed hours! Imagine.” While the actress has decided to lodge a formal complaint, her emotional video has brought the very prevalent problem of chronic fatigue syndrome to the fore, which often goes unnoticed.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Also read | When Tanushree Dutta called Nana Patekar a 'Narcissistic Psychopath', said, "Nana thought his plan would lead to my death, but I survived"

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is routine tiredness or exhaustion that persists even after hours of rest. Some of its symptoms include extreme fatigue that lasts for more than six months, doesn’t improve with rest, worsens after physical and mental exertion, and affects daily functioning. It’s highly misunderstood and overlooked, especially in Indian societies, where there’s less awareness. It is more frequently diagnosed in women than in men.

Health risks of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, how it affect daily life

CFS affects individuals differently. While some may need more rest and limited activity, others may require help with daily activities. Here’s how the disease can impact your daily life:

• Sleep-Related Issues: CFS patients do not wake up feeling refreshed despite hours of sleep. Some may even complain of insomnia.

• Perpetual Exhaustion: CFS may impede basic everyday activities, and patients may need to manage their day with frequent rest periods.

• Cognitive Difficulties: CFS is characterised by ‘brain fog’ that makes it difficult to concentrate and process information.

• Chronic Pains: Some of its symptoms that affect normal functioning include muscle and joint pains, headaches, swelling in lymph nodes, dizziness, among others.

• Breaking Down Work: To work without getting overly exhausted, CFS patients often need to break down their work into smaller parts.

• Impact on Social Life: Fatigue affects the ability to socialise, with significantly less energy reserve. It leads to withdrawing from school or work, which may further cause anxiety or depression.

Reportedly, there is no cure for CFS. Symptoms are mostly managed by doctors using different therapies, pain medication, lifestyle modifications, prioritising self-care, and rest.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.