Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) that is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is one of the complicated & chronic illness. According to a study, this complex condition affects over 1 million Americans.
Do you know that women are 2 to 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with Chronic fatigue syndrome than men? An individual suffering from CFS, typically comes across a range of symptoms making it hard to do their every day works that normal people do without giving a thought such as bathing or dressing. However, at the present time, there are no such specific treatments for CFS. However, we have a list of methods to relieve your CFS symptoms.
What is the Root Cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
It is not yet known and nobody knows for sure the main causes of CFS. While a bunch of researches says that CFS began after a flu-like illness or an infection like a stomach bug or cold, other researchers say that CFS can occur due to an infection with the Epstein-Barr virus- that causes mononucleosis or “mono”. People also argue that CFS starts after a time of extreme physical stress like following surgery.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms
Chronic Fatigue SyndromeThe symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are just come & go or an individual can experience these symptoms always. Initially, you may feel like you have flu. Some major symptoms are:
- Feeling very exhausted (more than 24 hours after physical/mental exercise)
- No refreshment after sleep or facing trouble while sleeping
- Cannot concentrate, pay attention and poor memory
- Feeling dizzy and fainting while sitting up or standing
- Muscle aches/pain
- Joint pain without a swelling/redness
- Headaches
- Tender lymph nodes under the arm or in the neck
- Constantly sore throat or it goes away & comes back often
Other than these symptoms, there are some less-common symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as well:
- Visual problems
- Psychological symptoms (irritability, mood swings, panic attacks, anxiety)
- Chills & night sweats
- Low body temperature or low-grade fever
- Annoyed bowel
- Allergies & sensitivities to sound, medications, chemicals, foods, and odors
- Tingling, burning, numbness or sensations in the feet, hands or face
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome widely differ from person to person. It can be both mild or serious. Most of the time, CFS symptoms are not visible to others making it hard for people around to understand the challenges an individual with CFS is facing.
Risk Factors of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Most commonly, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is seen among individuals in their 40s as well as 50s. Sex plays a vital role in CFS. Other than sex, following are the factors that increase the possibility for CFS:
- genetic predisposition
- allergies
- stress
- environmental factors
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatments
Currently, there is no specific treatment to heal CFS. Every person experiences different symptom, hence it requires different types of treatments to handle the disorder as well as relieve the existing symptoms. It is always recommended to work closely with a doctor to acquire the best and appropriate guidance. Wait! Don’t lose your hope!! You can reduce the symptoms of Chronic fatigue syndrome by making a few lifestyle changes.
- You should limit or just eliminate your caffeine intake. Yes, it will help you to sleep better as well as ease your insomnia. Also, limiting or avoiding nicotine & alcohol will also help you.
- In case you are not able to sleep at night, just avoid napping during the daytime.
- Plan a sleep routine. Start going to bed at a fixed time every night and try to wake up at a fixed time every day.
Bottom Line
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is still a complex condition without an exact known cure and cause. Hence, it is challenging to deal with it. Try to make certain lifestyle changes to cure your chronic fatigue. You will need a good support system as you will experience depression, anxiety, or social isolation. As CFS varies from person to person, it is important to consult a doctor to help you.
Also Read: Period Fatigue And 7 Ways To Combat It
