Are you tired much of the time, even when you're not doing anything? Do your joints and muscles ache? Are you constantly tired, even when you've slept well and got plenty of rest? Does doing something really easy tire you out?

If you are encountering these symptoms, you may be suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

Feeling tired much of the time may not necessarily indicate that you are suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Tiredness is linked to many other conditions. However, if your tiredness is accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty with sleeping and concentrating, frequent headaches, memory loss, a sore throat and the symptoms listed above, then there is a chance you could be suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

If you suffer from the symptoms of this condition for over six months, then you really should get an opinion from your GP. Unfortunately, there is no reliable test to help diagnose CFS.

Statistics show then nearly 4 out of 10000 US adults suffer from this disorder. Women are usually affected by chronic fatigue syndrome, between the ages of 40 and 50 years, although it can occur in men, children and teenagers as well.

Some people may find it easier to carry on with their day-to-day lives than others who may find normal activities more difficult. Some symptoms may disappear and reappear - it is easy for sufferers to think their condition has been cured. They then take part in too many activities and risk a relapse.

Treatments may include herbal and nutritional supplements, medication, alternative therapies and symptomatic treatment. Always seek professional medical help, so that all of your symptoms may be correctly treated.

You may find that you suffer from other symptoms - chills, depression, eye problems, keeping your balance and allergies.

Chronic fatigue syndrome can be treated, and children have an especially good chance of returning to normal fairly quickly.

This is a serious condition and must not be ignored.