It’s Tuesday afternoon and you’ve had three cups of coffee, but you’re still feeling tired and have low energy. In fact, you’ve been feeling like this for weeks or even months. What gives? While you may think this is just another case of an afternoon slump, it could possibly be something more. Something such as chronic fatigue syndrome.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Healthline defines chronic fatigue syndrome or CFS as the following, “Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disorder characterized by extreme fatigue or tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest and can’t be explained by an underlying medical condition. CFS can also be referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease
(SEID).” With an understanding of what chronic fatigue syndrome is, we can delve into the symptoms, possible causes, and possible treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Exhaustion Despite Sleep
- Insomnia and Sleep Issues
- Dizziness
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Poor Memory
- Problems Concentrating
- Brain Fog
- Lethargy
- Slow Recovery
- Frequent Sickness
- Digestive Issues
- Daytime Sleepiness
- Depression
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Muscle or Joint Pain
While this is not a complete list of symptoms, it gives us a good outline of common and uncommon symptoms that a person may experience with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Possible Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
While there is no known exact cause of chronic fatigue syndrome, there are certain factors that may play a role in causing it. The Mayo Clinic lists the following factors that may contribute to chronic fatigue syndrome:
- Genetics. ME/CFS appears to run in some families, so some people may be born with a higher likelihood of developing the disorder.
- Infections. Some people develop ME/CFS symptoms after getting a viral or bacterial infection or even Lyme disease.
- Physical or emotional trauma. Some people report that they experienced an injury, surgery or significant emotional stress shortly before their symptoms began.
- Problems with energy usage. Some people with ME/CFS have problems converting the body’s fuel, primarily fats and sugars, into energy.
The Mayo Clinic also goes on to state that other factors such as your age, sex, or even other medical conditions could possibly contribute to chronic fatigue syndrome.
Possible Treatments for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
When it comes to treating chronic fatigue syndrome, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment with guaranteed success. Instead, there are different aspects and factors that can aid in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome. Such treatment aspects and factors include, but are not limited to the following:
- Diet and eating plan. Focusing on whole foods, healthy sources of clean, grass-fed animal protein along with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. The diet eliminates high-sugar and processed foods that can spike blood sugar.
- Supplements. These may be prescribed depending on nutrient testing. Common deficiencies that may contribute to fatigue include B12, vitamin D, and iron. Mitochondrial support with CoQ10, Acetyl-L-carnitine and D-ribose can also help to improve energy production.
- Lifestyle and activity levels. While it may be tempting to stay home and be a couch potato, inactivity and isolation can actually exacerbate CFS. Social interaction, mild exercise and spending time outdoors may help increase your energy and overall wellness.
- Sleep. Many CFS patients suffer from insomnia or other sleep disturbances. Talk to your doctor to determine if a sleep study would be beneficial.
- Stress management is a critical component to reducing stress hormones like Cortisol.
As with the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, the possible treatments for CFS are meant to be used as an outline and possible starting points towards a better quality of life.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no known cause or cure for chronic fatigue syndrome or CFS. However, that does not mean you have to suffer from the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. If you are ready to take the first step towards a better quality of life, schedule an appointment with Dr. Robin Ridinger of Premier Health and Holistic Medicine today! With over 30 years of medical experience, Dr. Ridinger deeply understands integrative medicine and the human body. Don’t let chronic fatigue syndrome or CFS rule your life any longer, call or visit our website today!
Phone: (703) 857-4280
Website: https://www.premierhealthandholisticmedicine.com/contact/
