Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is perhaps one of the most puzzling, misunderstood illnesses of our time. It is hard to diagnose as its symptoms mask those of a myriad of other diseases.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is perhaps one of the most puzzling, misunderstood illnesses of our time. It is hard to diagnose as its symptoms mask those of a myriad of other diseases. Often insensitive people will think that those who suffer from the syndrome are just a little bit "off," and "it is just in their head…" Sometimes those who have CFS will doubt the reality of the illness themselves. It is a confusing, complex condition. Let's take a look and see what we can find out about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Perhaps we can learn enough to begin to solve the mystery.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a progressive debilitating disease that causes extreme fatigue that lasts six months or more. This type of fatigue is often not alleviated by bed rest, and is brought on and/or made worse by any kind of physical or mental exertion. It is definitely different from the common tiredness a person might experience after a long stressful day or a sleepless night. CFS goes by many other names including: chronic fatigue and immune disorder syndrome (CFIDS), Epstein-Barr disease, post-viral fatigue syndrome, myalgic encephalomyelitis, and "yuppie flu." People with symptoms similar to CFS are sometimes said to have fibromyalgia, and scientists now consider these two conditions to be overlapping.
In the 1980's, significant outbreaks of CFS were observed, and many of these patients were found to have higher than normal levels of the anti-bodies associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes mononucleosis. Other viral antibodies have also been discovered in CFS patients, and researchers believe that a combination of viruses may be responsible for the onset of CFS. There is some evidence that when a virus injures the body and compromises the immune system, this may set off a chain reaction whereby dormant viruses may become active. This is thought to cause an over-reaction from the immune system which produces flu-like symptoms, and is a common factor in many CFS subjects.
Chronic fatigue syndrome manifests itself differently in every patient, but there are certain symptoms that seem to be most common. Some of these primary symptoms are as follows:
Fatigue, as the name indicates, is most common. But this fatigue is not resolved by a good night's rest. This fatigue is very draining and ongoing, and it robs patients of the ability to function normally in their daily lives. Often a person's stamina will decline, and their level of activity will be forced to drop dramatically as a result.
In addition, there are some common secondary symptoms:
How Do I Know If I Have CFS?
A diagnosis of CFS is hard to pin down. There are no diagnostic lab tests for CFS. The symptoms and degrees thereof vary from patient to patient, and many of the symptoms are associated with other conditions. After years of research and debate on this illness, a standard was agreed upon to determine a positive diagnosis for CFS. To be diagnosed with CFS, a patient must meet both of these criteria:
In addition, your health provider should evaluate your symptoms and take your personal medical history into account. There are tests available for conditions with symptoms similar to CFS, and you may choose to have testing done to eliminate these. They include for mononucleosis, Lyme disease, thyroid conditions, diabetes, certain cancers, depression, bipolar disorder, and multiple sclerosis. Often a diagnosis of CHF is reached only through the process of elimination.
There is no known cure for CFS, but there are remedies that have proved effective to lessen and improve symptoms. Allopathic doctors have tried nonsteriodal and anti-inflammatory drugs to help with pain and reduce fever. Low dosages of antidepressants have also been used to relieve depression in CFS patients. The results have not been impressive, and as with most pharmaceutical drugs, there are significant side effects. However, there are many natural, herbal, lifestyle, and nutritional approaches that have been tested.
The following supplements have shown some promise in the treatment of CFS:
Exercise can have a significant effect on CFS patients. This is something that needs to be carefully managed, as over exertion can cause problems. However, avoiding exercise is not a good option either. Stretching exercises are particularly of value to the CFS patient, and may be combined with moderate aerobic exercise. Start slowly, and increase gradually. Listen to your body and don't overdo it. But don't be afraid of exercise either! Like most things in life, balance is the key.
Massage therapy can be very useful to CFSers as well. It can be very relaxing, and helps the muscles and circulatory to operate more efficiently. This can lessen muscle pain and help depression and mood swings. It can also do wonders for our sleep to get a nice rub down before bed.
My heart goes out to those of you who are afflicted with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. We have had to deal with it in our own family. I hope you have learned some things that will help you to feel better and carry on in the struggles of this illness. Be encouraged! There is hope, and you are not alone.
DISCLAIMER: The statements enclosed herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information mentioned on this site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your treating doctor. Oasis Advanced Wellness does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. We design and recommend individual nutritional programs and supplements that allow the body to rebuild and heal itself. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Oasis Advanced Wellness are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition, see your physician of choice.
