Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) refers to severe, consistent tiredness, weakness, and flu-like symptoms that may last from months to years.  CFS is a recently known condition, with no real known cause. However, possible causes include:

  • infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (Human Herpes Virus 6) or yeast (Candida albicans)
  • immune system dysfunction
  • chemical sensitivity or toxic exposure
  • chronic inflammation
  • chronic low blood pressure
  • hormonal imbalances
  • low blood sugar
  • iron-deficiency anemia
  • stress

Your doctor will likely diagnose you with CFS after you have had unexplained, persistent fatigue for six months or more with at least four of these eight primary symptoms:

  • extreme exhaustion after normal exertion
  • headache of a new type, pattern or severity
  • memory loss or difficulty concentrating
  • pain that moves from one joint to another without any swelling or redness
  • painful and mildly enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or armpits
  • difficulty sleeping
  • sore throat
  • unexplained muscle soreness

Other signs and symptoms that are not considered primary include:

  • abdominal pain
  • alcohol intolerance
  • bloating
  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • weight loss
  • chest pain
  • irregular heartbeat
  • chronic cough
  • shortness of breath
  • dizziness
  • dry eyes and mouth
  • earache
  • jaw pain
  • morning stiffness
  • tingling sensations
  • night sweats
  • depression, irritability or anxiety

There is no known medication that can help with CFS, although your doctor may prescribe drugs that address your symptoms. Such drugs have some adverse side effects however, and include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, anti-inflammatories, and allergy drugs. Consult with your doctor and/or pharmacist about weighing the benefits of taking the drugs and dealing with their side effects.

Natural health care can help tremendously with CFS. Naturopathic medicine can help your immune system and optimize your health, while acupuncture and TCM can boost your energy levels, improve your sleep, and relieve pain. Yoga and massage therapy can reduce your stress, make you feel more balanced, and get you on the road to great health.

Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you prevent and manage the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.

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