Chronic fatigue has long since been a confusing affliction to many doctors, although it is no joke to the many people who suffer from it. Now research has come forward concluding that the syndrome is actually a serious condition that might have to do biological makeup that would classify it as an illness.

In light of these new findings, many are calling for a name change of the syndrome so put a valid name on its severity. Many feel that the name chronic fatigue undermines their real symptoms and makes it sound like just being tired.

In its severity chronic fatigue can make people feel so tired that they get exhausted by a simple activity like going to the store or running an errand. It can also cause issues with memory loss and other symptoms. Currently there is no actual test for it, but only some questions to determine which symptoms someone is dealing with.

The Department of Health has released three key symptoms that need to be in place to diagnose chronic fatigue. The first is that the patient feels extreme fatigue for at least six months of time. The next is that sleep does little to repair the energy levels and that physical exertion aggravates it, and the last is that they experience a cognitive impairment or brain fog. Patients see a lessening of symptoms at bedtime, and find it difficult to remain upright for long periods of time.

When a great diagnosis is done, there are some ways available to treat chronic fatigue, and doctors hope that they will become increasingly available. Some people have already suggested the name myalgic encephalomyelitis to replace chronic fatigue once and for all.

Dr. Lucinda Bateman, a committee member at the Department of Health saw the recent finding as positive steps in the right direction.

“We hope these diagnostic criteria provide a clear path. It’s a good start,” she said.