Other Names

• PVFD falls under an umbrella diagnosis along with myalgic encephalomyelitis, fibromyalgia and chronic-fatigue syndrome. The names are different, but they all account for sudden and dramatic pain and exhaustion following an illness.
  
  

Onset

• PVFD develops after a viral illness, but not immediately. A person may feel fine for a few days following the illness, but symptoms will begin to appear. The symptoms are light at first and develop intensity over time.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms may differ depending on the person and the initial viral infection. It may begin with flu-like symptoms such as nausea and aches and pains. It may also include dizziness and a feeling of unease. The symptoms become worse over time and may be debilitating.
  
  

Treatment

• There is no treatment for PVFS, but doctors can treat the individual symptoms. An antidepressant may be prescribed to fight depression caused by the illness. Painkillers are administered for aches and pains.
  
  

Recovery

• The symptoms may flare up and diminish only to come back. Most patients will make a full recovery over time, but some will have it for the rest of their lives.