chronic fatigue

CFS – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms & Natural Solutions

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CFS

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex chronic disorder characterized by extreme fatigue and isn’t typically relieved by rest.  The cause is not explained by any underlying medical condition.  People with CFS are frequently unable to perform their daily activities.  In some of the worst cases, some are confined to their beds.  The condition affects millions of people all over the world.  Although it affects both children and adults, women appear to be affected the most (1).

There is no known “cure” for CFS.  Primarily because the underlying cause can be different from person to person. However, many people have resolved their condition or significantly reduced their symptoms by employing several natural solutions.  CFS can last anywhere from months to years.  Especially true when no action has been taken.  There are a number of factors that are associated with this condition.

Causes Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

The exact cause of CFS is unknown to each individual person.  However, research has shown many contributing factors to this condition which includes;

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

The symptoms of CFS will vary from one individual to the next.  The symptoms will also range in severity.  The most prominent symptom will be fatigue.  A frustrating factor for many is that the fatigue doesn’t get relieved by rest.  This results in a noticeable decrease in one’s activity level.  Episodes of fatigue can last for months or years.  Other CFS symptoms my include;

  1. Sleep Disorders (5)

People with CFS may experience sleep disorders such as:

  • Insomnia
  • Hypersomnia
  • Restless legs
  • Night sweats
  • Light sleep
  • Fragmented sleep
  • Lack of refreshing sleep

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2. Pain (6)

People with CFS may experience different types of pain such as:

  • Muscle pains
  • Headaches
  • Joint pain and swelling
  • Sore throat
  • Swollen and painful lymph nodes on the neck and armpits.

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3. Cognitive Impairment (7)

This can range from:

  • Memory loss
  • Reduced concentration
  • Dizziness
  • Numbness
  • Panic attacks

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4. Additional Symptoms

Other symptoms that some people may experience include:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Body temperature changes
  • Stress

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Diagnosis

Diagnosing CFS can take time.  The symptoms can mimic other medical conditions.  Doctors must rule out all other illnesses in order to diagnose you with CFS.  Be sure that you see your healthcare practitioner if you have experienced chronic fatigue or any of the above symptoms for more than six months, and you do not feel refreshed after sleeping.

CFS affects many people.  Most of which are unaware they have the condition.  It is important that you understand all the symptoms.  Inform your healthcare practitioner of them.  A review of your full health history including any medications you may be taking should also be discussed.  It’s important to be through as any missing information may hinder your ability to uncover the underlying cause of your condition.  This can lead to depression and a restriction of physical activities.

Natural Solutions For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

There is no specific cure for CFS.  However, there are various natural solutions that patients use to eliminate the symptoms.  In some cases, even resolve their condition.  It is always a good idea to discuss your natural approach with your healthcare provider.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

The treatment involves helping patients manage CFS.  The therapy focuses on helping one accept the condition, be able to manage the symptoms and change their attitude towards the condition.  This will allow the you to gain a better understanding of how to overcome the symptoms.  The treatment is offered on a one to one basis; hence you need to have an experienced practitioner (8).

2. Physical Activities

The best natural remedy for chronic fatigue syndrome is physical exercise.  It’s especially important to engage in exercises that raise your heart rate.  Exercises such as swimming, walking, and climbing stairs should not add to the fatigue you already have.  Always start with just a few minutes of exercise and gradually increase.  If you lack confidence or are unsure where to start, consider consulting your healthcare practitioner or personal trainer (9).

3. Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes involve resting and relaxing more.  If you are facing difficulties with sleep, stress and pain, you should rest and relax during the day.  Make sure that you do not sleep too much during the day.

4. Decrease The Consumption Of Caffeine & Alcohol

If you have chronic fatigue syndrome, you should eliminate caffeine and alcohol.  The remedy is for those people who have difficulties sleeping at night (10).  For more information click here to read, “Are you Addicted to Caffeine? How to Detox without Withdrawals”.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a condition that affects many people.  It is important to understand the causes, symptoms and how to treat it naturally.  Working with a health care provider will help you recover faster.

You’re one step closer!

References:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26190206
https://www.bmj.com/content/333/7568/575.short
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0140673691914406
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0447.1998.tb10030.x
https://www.bmj.com/content/306/6886/1161.short
https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/97332
https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/62/2/151.short
https://www.bmj.com/content/312/7022/22.full.pdf+html
https://www.bmj.com/content/314/7095/1647.full
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022399903000771