Has Progress Been Made on Understanding the Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
“The cause or causes of chronic fatigue syndrome remain unknown, despite a vigorous search,” writes the Centers for Disease Control. It’s still plausible that the symptoms result from a combination of factors, including genetic, environmental, stresses and toxins. Currently, it&
The CDC has a few theories on the explanations for CFS. One is that critical or recurring infections including Epstein-Barr or herpes virus 6 can leave residual effects in the system, like lethargy and aches. A research study encompassing four cities could not trace chronic fatigue syndrome back to a single specific human pathogen, although it is believed that infectious agents might play a part in causing chronic fatigue.
Recent research implies that patients contaminated with Epstein-Barr virus, Ross River virus and Coxiella burnetti will pick up a post-infective illness that matches the chronic fatigue syndrome indications in 12% of instances.
While it’s not one of the purported causes of chronic fatigue syndrome, a recent study showed that 96% of adults with a CFS diagnosis also tested positive for neurally mediated hypotension during tilt table testing (compared to 29% of healthy controls). Neurally mediated hypotension is induced when a patient gets up too fast, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure, lightheadedness, nausea and fainting. Some CFS patients were given medication normally administered to NMH patients and many saw dramatic improvement in their symptoms, but much more medical research is required before this one-size-fits-all approach is recommended.
Finding treatment is often as difficult as finding the causes of chronic fatigue syndrome. Some patients feel better with some lifestyle modifications. They try to eat better, start a regular exercise schedule, steer clear of known stressors and change their sleep habits. Counseling often helps patients find a more positive outlook and identify ways to change their situation. Others try medications for pain relief, depression, anxiety, blood pressure regulation or allergies. Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, meditation, massage and movement therapy have been treatments recommended by CFS and fibromyalgia doctors as well.
Would you be able to recognize a chronic fatigue symptom? If you think you might have one or more of the symptoms of CFS, visit your doctor. You should also educate yourself about this condition. Go to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Help to find out more about this ailment and how you can find relief.
