Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) and Long COVID are both long-term, debilitating conditions that share many symptoms, but there are important differences between them. Knowing these differences can help you understand your symptoms and find effective ways to manage them. This article will cover the key distinctions between CFS and Long COVID, focusing on symptoms and treatment options.
What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?
CFS, also called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) or ME/CFS, is a complex condition marked by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest, along with other symptoms like sleep problems, muscle pain, brain fog, and post-exertional malaise (PEM)—a worsening of symptoms after even minor physical or mental effort. The exact cause of CFS is unknown, but viral infections, immune issues, and hormonal imbalances may play a role.
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC), refers to symptoms that linger for weeks, months, or even years after a COVID-19 infection. While COVID-19 itself may clear, some people experience persistent issues like fatigue, shortness of breath, brain fog, muscle pain, and heart-related symptoms. Because it’s a new condition, research is still ongoing to understand Long COVID’s causes and best treatments.
Key Symptom Differences Between CFS and Long COVID
1. Fatigue and Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM)
- CFS: Fatigue is a defining symptom, accompanied by PEM, where symptoms worsen after exertion and take days or weeks to recover.
- Long COVID: Fatigue is also common, though PEM may not be as prominent for everyone. Some people with Long COVID can gradually build up stamina over time.
2. Respiratory Symptoms
- CFS: Respiratory symptoms are not a main feature of CFS, though shortness of breath can occur due to overall fatigue.
- Long COVID: Respiratory issues like chest tightness and lingering cough are common, especially in those with moderate or severe COVID-19 infections. Breathing exercises may help.
3. Brain Fog and Neurological Symptoms
- CFS: Brain fog, including trouble with memory and concentration, is a core symptom. Light and sound sensitivity are also common.
- Long COVID: Brain fog is prevalent, but additional symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and changes in taste or smell occur more frequently than in CFS.
4. Muscle and Joint Pain
- CFS: Muscle and joint pain are frequent and often worsen with activity.
- Long COVID: Muscle and joint pain are also common but may include other inflammation-related pain, like chest or abdominal pain. Stretching can sometimes ease discomfort.
5. Heart and Circulatory Issues
- CFS: Some people experience dizziness and lightheadedness due to orthostatic intolerance, a difficulty regulating heart rate and blood pressure.
- Long COVID: Heart-related symptoms, like palpitations and chest pain, are more common and may include conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), which affects heart rate regulation.
Treatment Approaches for CFS and Long COVID
Because there is no cure for either condition, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. While there is overlap in treatment strategies, some approaches are tailored to each condition’s unique challenges.
1. Managing Fatigue and Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM)
- CFS: Pacing is crucial to avoid PEM. This means balancing activity with rest and staying within an energy envelope to prevent overexertion.
- Long COVID: Pacing is also helpful, but some people with Long COVID may be able to slowly build up their activity level with guidance from a physical therapist if they don’t experience severe PEM.
2. Cognitive and Brain Fog Support
- CFS: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help some people manage the mental aspects of CFS. Memory exercises and mindfulness can also support cognitive function.
- Long COVID: Brain fog may improve gradually, but cognitive rehab therapies and supplements like omega-3s or B vitamins are sometimes recommended, though more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
3. Heart and Circulatory Health
- CFS: People with orthostatic intolerance may benefit from increasing salt and fluid intake, wearing compression garments, or taking medications to regulate blood pressure and heart rate.
- Long COVID: Many people with Long COVID experience heart-related issues, including POTS, and may benefit from similar treatments. Cardiovascular rehab under medical supervision may also be helpful for some.
4. Respiratory and Immune Support
- CFS: Respiratory support isn’t typically required in CFS, but immune-boosting supplements like vitamin D or zinc may improve general wellness.
- Long COVID: Respiratory symptoms in Long COVID may be managed with breathing exercises, pulmonary rehabilitation, and, in some cases, inhaled medications. Some experimental treatments, like antivirals or corticosteroids, are being studied but aren’t yet widely used.
5. Pain Management
- CFS: Pain can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, gentle stretching, and relaxation techniques like warm baths. Some people find relief with acupuncture or low-impact physical therapies.
- Long COVID: Pain management strategies are similar, but anti-inflammatory treatments may be more helpful for Long COVID patients with inflammation-related pain.
Conclusion
While Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long COVID share many symptoms, they differ in some key areas, such as respiratory and heart symptoms. Treatment options for both focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life through pacing, cognitive support, and symptom-specific therapies. If you’re struggling with symptoms that align with either CFS or Long COVID, working with a healthcare provider who understands these conditions can help you create a personalized treatment plan.
For more information on managing CFS or Long COVID, visit our Solutions section for additional resources and support.