How To Help With Chronic Fatigue

Everyone experiences days of extreme fatigue, where their bodies and minds cannot push themselves any longer. At times, these people might have this feeling for a day or two, but after adequate sleep and rest (along with some pleasurable or relaxing activities), they always spring back to their daily routines and work schedules.

That said, what most people are increasingly experiencing today is an extended feeling of drop in energy levels and tiredness that lasts up to several months (aka Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.)

 

But First, Some Overview

The guide will begin with some basic definitions, symptoms, and risk factors (causes) to ensure everyone is on the same page.

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex condition characterized partially by intense fatigue that lasts six months or more. Other features of CFS can include poor sleep quality, depression, joint pain, muscle pain, cognitive difficulties, and/or other nonspecific symptoms.

Most individuals suffering from CFS have reported difficulty carrying out daily activities, exercising, attending school, and even working.

Sadly, most conventional physicians tend to overlook this condition, and up to 80 percent of people suffering from CFS might not receive an accurate diagnosis.

What are the Risk Factors and Causes of CFS?

As of the writing of this guide, a specific cause of CFS hasn’t been irrefutably demonstrated. That said, several factors may correlate with CFS incidence, and these include:  

  • Viruses like Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) might play a role in CFCs development
  • It’s more common in women approaching middle or early adulthood
  • Autoimmunity, mitochondrial dysfunctions, excessive inflammation, and oxidative stress may also be involved.

 Now onto the most exciting section of the guide.

 

5 Ways to Help with Chronic Fatigue

Even though CFS has no definitive cure, physicians will recommend one of the following to treat your symptoms if you’re ever diagnosed with the condition.

Antidepressants

In addition to alleviating depression, antidepressants can also help reduce muscle tension and fatigue, which will, in turn, improve sleep. While antidepressants’ side effects vary, some of the most common antidepressants often prescribed for CFS include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and Tricyclics.

Besides antidepressants, other drug therapies most physicians will often recommend include stimulants, Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Antihistamines, and Anti-anxiety medications (benzodiazepines).

Homeopathy

The suitable homeopathic CFS remedy will depend on your constitutional type, which includes, but isn’t limited to, your psychological, emotional, and physical makeup. A seasoned homeopath will assess all of these factors and determine the most appropriate treatment for you.

Some of the commonly used remedies by homeopaths to treat CFS include:  

  • Pulsatilla — For individuals who’re emotional and moody but with a gentle and calm disposition
  • Gelsemium — For physical weakness, including heaviness of the eyelids and limbs, and mental exhaustion, such as indifference and drowsiness
  • Sulphur — For individuals who feel fatigued but aren’t as emotionally sensitive as those that need Pulsatilla
  • Arsenicum — For fatigue and restlessness accompanied by burning pains and chills that worsen at night

Diet and Supplements

It’s essential that you eat regularly and only have balanced, healthy diets. If your CFS symptoms don’t allow you to prepare food or shop efficiently, your doctor will offer practical advice on how to still achieve this.

 In addition, avoid refined foods, saturated fats, alcohol, caffeine, and sugar. Consume more protein, whole grains, legumes, fresh vegetables, and essential fatty acids found in cold-water fish, seeds, and nuts. There is also sufficient evidence to show that some supplements can help alleviate symptoms of CFS. These include magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and coenzyme Q1.

For Vitamin B12, most doctors recommend a vitamin shooter. A shooter is a tiny shot in your arm or butt of a super energy boost. It’s up to 5 times more effective than regular vitamin B12 shots.

Chiropractic

Even though no well-designed clinical trial has looked at chiropractic treatment for CFS, lots of reputable chiropractors suggest that spinal manipulation will reduce pain and boost energy in some individuals suffering from CFS.

Relapses or Setbacks

A relapse or setback is when symptoms worsen for a specific period of time. Note that they are a common part of CFS and can be attributed to a wide array of factors, like unplanned activity or infection. At times, there won’t even be a clear cause.  

The good news, though, is that the doctor treating you can help you handle a relapse or setback by:  

  • Encouraging you to stay optimistic about your recovery
  • Teaching your breathing and relaxation techniques
  • Including more breaks in your current levels of activities

Give it a try for yourself and see if it helps!

Share

HealthStatus teams with authors from organizations to share interesting ideas, products and new health information to our readers.

User Reviews

Reply

Your email address will not be published

7 + seven =

Written by HealthStatus Crew
Medical Writer & Editor

HealthStatus teams with authors from organizations to share interesting ideas, products and new health information to our readers.

View all post by HealthStatus Crew