It's likely that not one single factor is responsible for the development of chronic fatigue syndrome, but rather a combination of factors. Physical or emotional stress seems to make CFS worse. The main factors thought to contribute to CFS include:

• a traumatic event (loss of loved one, divorce or unemployment)
• depression
• exhaustion and mental stress
• viral infections which weaken the immune system.

The following factors tend to make CFS worse:

• environmental pollution
• feeling frustrated and depressed
• lack of activity
• overactivity
• poor diet
• recurring viral or bacterial infections
• social isolation
• stress

Risk factors
Chronic fatigue was once thought to affect only highly educated young adults who are "high achievers" or career-oriented professionals. It is now known that CFS affects people of all ages and from all walks of life. Chronic fatigue syndrome is sometimes seen in members of the same family, but there's no evidence that it's contagious. Instead, there may be a familial or genetic link. Potential risk factors for developing chronic fatigue include:

• Gender - Chronic fatigue syndrome is 2-4 times more common in women than in men.
• Genetic - Inherited genetic susceptibility may contribute to the development of chronic fatigue as the illness has been seen to be more common in some families.
• Age - CFS is less common in children than in adults. Studies suggest that chronic fatigue is more prevalent in adolescents than in younger children. The illness occurs most often in people in their 40s and 50s, but people of all ages are diagnosed with chronic fatigue.

How do you know if you are experiencing chronic fatigue syndrome? Do you know the signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue? Read on to learn more about symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome in the CFS Symptoms section that follows.