Yawn of the dread

EXPERT'S TIPS ON HOW TO COPE WITH CHRONIC FATIGUE

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FROM persistent fatigue to cognitive difficulties and pain, the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome can be debilitating.

It's much more than simply feeling tired - it's a serious condition affecting millions worldwide.

We spoke with a GP who highlighted key signs to look out and gave advice on how to cope.

What is chronic fatigue?

"It's also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), a complex condition characterised by persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest and impairs daily functioning," says Dr Mohammed Enayat, GP and founder of longevity clinic HUM2N.

"The exact cause is still unknown, although it is widely believed to involve abnormalities in the immune and nervous system and metabolism."

One of the biggest misconceptions is that it is simply "being tired" or a psychological condition caused by stress or depression, says Dr Enayat.

"While mental-health conditions can co-exist with it, it is not a psychological disorder," he says.

What are common symptoms?

Symptoms can vary greatly in range and severity from person to person.