Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a condition wherein one experiences the feeling of extreme fatigue or tiredness for a longer period of time. This type of fatigue does not go away even if you get ample rest, and worsens if you try to engage in physical and even mental activities. It impedes an individual from doing the regular things he or she usually does.
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include the feeling of extreme tiredness and stress, or fatigue for longer than 6 months. Some other symptoms can also be manifested such as pain in the muscles, forgetfulness, recurrent headaches, pain in the joints, insomnia and sore throat. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a very serious disease, so if symptoms persist, it is best for you to seek medical attention right away.
Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The real cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is still unknown. However, there are some theories from specialists.
• Infectious agents – Chronic fatigue syndrome was first discovered because of a patient suffering from Epstein-Barr mononucleosis, a form of viral infection. Other viruses such as Ross river virus and Coxiella burnetti cause diseases that have the same signs and symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Immunology – It could also be possible that the chronic fatigue syndrome is caused by a malfunction of the body’s immune system. It may be that it is producing too much or too little amounts of cytokines. Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome have been observed with this kind of abnormality.
• Hyporthalamic-Pituitary Adrenal Axis – In Hypothalamic – Pituitary Adrenal axis, the release of some important hormones like cortisol leads to the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Neurally Mediated Hypotension – The alteration of the normal blood pressure and pulse due to neurological reasons also lead to the symptoms seen in chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Nutritional Deficiency – Even if there is no evidence that nutritional deficiency causes chronic fatigue syndrome, there are some patients that showed symptoms similar with CFS which might be caused by an unbalanced diet. This is not certain and is still yet to be proven.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment
Treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome has not yet been developed. The technique in managing this disease is to control the symptoms and to minimize the severity. People with chronic fatigue syndrome are encouraged to do some physical activities daily. This doesn’t have to be done quickly; gradually doing physical activities regularly is the key. Also, communication with other persons who also have the same condition can help them mentally, since knowing that they are not alone will encourage them to fight and live with the condition. There are also some medications that would help manage the symptoms of chronic fatigue. These drugs include tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, sedatives and analgesics. The doctor is the best person to consult on how and when to take these medications. It is crucial that you seek help from qualified medical professionals and the people around you for higher chances of success in dealing with chronic fatigue syndrome.
