Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Los Angeles

There is no single definitive lab test for CFS. Diagnosis is typically based on clinical criteria, including persistent fatigue lasting six months or more that is not improved by rest, alongside symptoms such as post-exertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive difficulties. A thorough functional medicine workup helps rule out other treatable causes while identifying the underlying factors contributing to the symptom picture.

The terms are often used interchangeably, and many medical bodies now use the combined name ME/CFS. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is the older term, with 'myalgic' referring to muscle pain and 'encephalomyelitis' referring to inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Both describe the same clinical syndrome, and the current scientific understanding is that ME/CFS has clear biological underpinnings rather than being primarily psychological.

Yes. Post-viral fatigue syndromes are well documented, and COVID-19 has brought renewed attention to this pattern. Long COVID shares many features with ME/CFS, including persistent fatigue, cognitive impairment, and post-exertional malaise. Patients who developed disabling fatigue following any significant viral illness may benefit from the same root-cause investigation used for CFS.

Timelines vary depending on how long the condition has been present, the severity of underlying drivers, and how the individual responds to treatment. Some patients experience meaningful improvement within a few months of addressing identified root causes. Others with more entrenched dysfunction require longer-term care. Expectations are calibrated individually based on the full clinical picture.

Yes. CFS and fibromyalgia frequently co-occur and share several features, including widespread fatigue, cognitive symptoms, and disrupted sleep. Other overlapping conditions include postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and mast cell activation syndrome. A comprehensive evaluation helps map the full picture rather than treating each condition in isolation.

Chronic psychological stress can dysregulate the HPA axis, impair immune function, and deplete adrenal reserves in ways that may worsen or prolong CFS. This does not mean CFS is a psychological condition. It means stress is one of several physiologic inputs that can push an already taxed system into dysfunction, which is why stress physiology is often addressed as part of a complete treatment strategy.

Yes. Pacing, which involves carefully managing physical and cognitive activity to avoid post-exertional crashes, is one of the most important self-management strategies. Anti-inflammatory nutrition, consistent sleep routines, and stress reduction also support recovery. Dr. Lalezar integrates lifestyle guidance alongside targeted medical treatment in each patient's protocol.

CFS appears to affect women more frequently than men, with some estimates suggesting a ratio of roughly two to one or higher. It can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in adults between 40 and 60. It is also more likely to develop following periods of significant illness, prolonged immune activation, or high physiologic stress.

Burnout and overtraining typically respond to adequate rest and recovery. CFS does not. A hallmark feature is post-exertional malaise, in which even modest physical or mental effort triggers a worsening of symptoms that can persist for days or longer. This disproportionate response, combined with unrefreshing sleep and multi-system involvement, distinguishes CFS from fatigue that is primarily lifestyle-related.

Yes. Virtual consultations are available for patients outside the Los Angeles area. Testing can often be coordinated locally and results reviewed remotely, allowing patients across the country to access Dr. Lalezar's root-cause approach to chronic fatigue without traveling to the clinic.