Introduction

Chronic fatigue is frequently consulted with pediatricians, specially for teenagers, because parents become very worried, often alarmed by a decrease in regular activities.

When this type of disorder is persistent, it is important to consider Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. This syndrome is an illness characterized by an overwhelming physical and mental fatigue, which gets worse under stress or physical effort and persists for long period of time, months or even years. Although the statistics are unknown regarding its frequency, it is more frequent than what is known and affects women more, starting at adolescence.

In the last years, the list of different causes related to the development of this type of scenarios has grown. Among the most frequent are infectious processes (Epstein Barr virus and Type 6 Herpes) and toxins produced by some microorganisms. Various studies have also shown an association with high blood pressure. There is also a theory that links it with psychiatric disorders when there is no physical laboratory proof. It is important to highlight other diseases such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, hepatitis B, leukemia, tuberculosis, adverse effects of common medications and other types of infections capable of producing fatigue, besides each disease’s symptoms.

What we learn during the initial development stages forms the basis of all future development.