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This is a condition which is characterised by overwhelming fatigue.
What to look for
recent onset of extreme
fatigue.
fatigue resulting not from
any type of exertion and that you cannot relieve with rest or sleep.
sore muscles.
long-lasting discomfort
following physical exertion.
sleep disorders (insomnia
or oversleeping).
swollen lymph glands.
joint pain.
forgetfulness, confusion,
inability to concentrate.
recurrent sore throat and
headaches.
symptoms that persist for
six months
Most people who are afflicted
with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are professional people but it can also afflict
children, teenagers and almost anybody.
CFS is characterised by
symptoms similar to the flu and a sudden overwhelming fatigue and is not a result of
physical exertion.
CFS is not a fatal disease,
although it can last for a long time.
Causes
The cause of CFS is not
known, but researchers are investigating various possibilities.
It is currently thought that
CFS may develop when a virus invades the body at a time when the immune system is not
functioning efficiently. It may be at a time when you are run down physically,
emotionally, or it could be a change in your current environmental, or a combination of
the three.
Some doctors believe that CFS
is psychological rather than physiological. Your doctor will get information off you
regarding your medical history, perform a physical exam, and do a complete blood count to
rule out other disorders that share symptoms with CFS.
Your symptoms must have been
present for at least six months before the doctor will diagnosis you with the disorder.
Traditional Treatment
Treatment centres on
relieving symptoms as there is no known cause for this disorder.
It is vitally important to
maintain a balanced diet with plenty of low impact exercise and to avoid stressful
situations and get plenty of rest.
The flu like symptoms of CFS
can be temporarily alleviated with a variety of medicines and medications.
Sensitivity to a chemical,
pesticide, household cleaning product, or another potential environmental toxin may also
be contributing to CFS. Try eliminating suspected items, then reintroducing them one by
one, to pinpoint what may be causing your symptoms.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Chinese Herbs -
A commercially prepared mixture called the Astragalus Ten Formula combines Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis),
astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), and other herbs
in powder or tablet form.
Herbal Therapies -
Goldenseal
(Hydrastis canadensis) has been shown
to help.
Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) and shiitake (Lentinus edodes) mushrooms contain substances
which may help this condition.
Licorice
(Glycyrrhiza glabra) is said to have antiviral properties. Silymarin, a component of milk thistle (Silybum marianum), may help with liver
problems.
German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), burdock (Arctium lappa),
yarrow
(Achillea millefolium), and
Asian ginseng
(Panax ginseng) are all said to be beneficial to CFS sufferers if taken regularly. You
will need professional help for more specific guidelines.
Homoeopathy
- Some Homoeopathic practitioners have reported success in treating the
symptoms of CFS. As with all chronic ailments, it's best to seek the advice of a
Homoeopath who can accurately diagnose and treat the specific symptoms of your case.
Dietary Considerations
One theory holds that a
nutritional deficiency may be a contributing factor causing CFS, so it's important to
maintain a healthful diet. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, refined sugar, white flour, salt, and
fried, preserved, high-fat foods in favour of whole grains, beans, rice, fish, and fresh
fruits and vegetables.
Add edible seaweeds, shiitake mushrooms, and
liquorice
to your diet. Eating two cloves of
garlic a day may help
boost your immune system's antiviral and antibacterial activity.
Coenzyme Q10 and vitamin B12 are nutritional supplements that may
lessen symptoms. Some evidence suggests that a combination of malic acid and magnesium may help relieve fatigue and muscle pain.
Other immune system-enhancing
vitamins include
vitamin C and beta carotene (see Vitamin A), which is also a natural antioxidant.
Vitamins
B5 and B6,
zinc,
selenium,
manganese, and chromium all play a role in strengthening the immune
system as well.
The amino acid tryptophan,
found in various foods, may be helpful for some symptoms, and since it helps the body
produce serotonin, a natural sedative, it may aid in sleep. However, don't take it in
supplement form if you have high blood pressure or are taking antidepressants.
People with this disorder may
have food allergies or sensitivities. This will show itself as an intolerance to a
particular food.
When a food that you're
allergic to enters your body, your immune system views it as an invader, and attacks it by
flooding your bloodstream with antibodies. The overabundance of these antibodies, in
conjunction with the release of histamines and other body chemicals, results in CFS like
symptoms.
When to seek further
professional advice
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