Stop Chronic Fatigue

Posts Tagged ‘Chronic Fatigue Symptom’

Even though chronic fatigue syndrome is a poorly understood and lacks any definitive treatment it is emerging as one of the most dominant health disorders of our time. Chronic fatigue is reported by 20 percent of all patients seeking medical care and is associated with many other well known medical conditions. The first of many signs of chronic fatigue is intractable fatigue lasting more than 6 months and not reversed by sleep.Fatigue is a slowly progressing, largely invisible symptom and like pain, is a warning sign that something is affecting the body. It can be a symptom of many illnesses such as infections or psychological disorders. In many cases the signs of chronic fatigue are worsened with physical or mental activity.Many people liken chronic fatigue syndrome to a flu-like condition that drains their energy for weeks and months on end. It can also be exacerbated by an actual viral illness or a dysfunction of the immune system. Women are diagnosed with chronic fatigue 2 to 4 times as often as men but it is unclear whether it affects women more frequently or if they just report it to their doctors more then men do.This is a complicated disorder characterized as stated earlier by extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest and worsens with physical or mental activity. Confusion, poor concentration, and forgetfulness are among some of the signs of chronic fatigue syndrome. In addition people previously healthy and full of energy may experience a variety of symptoms, including extreme fatigue, weakness and headaches as well as difficulty concentrating and painful joints, muscles and lymph nodes. People with chronic fatigue syndrome exhibit signs and symptoms similar to those of most common viral infections.Symptoms can also include weakness that interferes with daily living by up to 50% for some people. Unlike flu (influenza) symptoms, which usually subside in a few days or weeks, the signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome can last for months or years, causing a marked restriction in normal daily activities.Currently there is no specific diagnostic test for chronic fatigue nor is there a proven treatment regimen. Treatment is aimed at relieving the more obvious symptoms and restoring the patient to some level of pre-existing function and well-being. These treatments have been palliative at best and are based on trial and error application of what seems to work and what doesn’t. Doctor’s aim to relieve the symptoms and restore the patient to some level of pre-existing function and well-being.Chronic fatigue is a severe, debilitating disorder which can affect anyone. If you or someone you know is exhibiting the signs of chronic fatigue syndrome then a visit to the doctor is the first place to start to rule out other illnesses that may be contributing to the symptoms that are experienced.

For the individuals who suffer from the mysterious symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), or the debilitating symptoms of Crohns Disease the question “Is there a cure?” weighs heavily on their lives. The frustration that results from living with this non-specific illness serves to compound the never ending symptoms. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohn’s sufferers continue to battle the illness while researchers search for causes and cures.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) describe Crohn’s as “Crohn’s disease is a chronic (ongoing) disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although it can involve any area of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus, it most commonly affects the small intestine and/or colon.”

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is described as “A group of symptoms, of unknown cause, characterized by unexplained fatigue, weakness, muscle pain, feeling poorly, trouble thinking, and sometimes, fever and/or lymph node swelling.”

There is currently no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Chron’s Disease. There is no magic pill, no immunization, and no medication that can rid sufferers of the debilitating symptoms of CFS and CD. However, individuals who suffer from CFS and CD can successfully manage their symptoms. Using current interventions including prescription medications, alternative therapies, and a comprehensive nutritional plan, CFS and CD patients can find relief.

Upon receiving a diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Crohns Disease, the patient is advised to seek as much information as possible from current and reputable sources. Because little is still known about CFS and CD, information is limited but available. Reliance on sources such as the Centers for Disease Control and the medical research departments of large universities will yield the best information. CFS and CD patients are advised to beware of quack treatments or anyone offering a “cure”. Armed with information, the CFS sufferer can assist in making the most viable choices for his or her treatment plan.

A reasonable treatment plan should include a combination of therapies. By discussing a plan with a competent medical professional, the patient can assist in developing the best plan for him or her. A medical professional may prescribe prescription drugs that may alleviate the constant fatigue or intestinal pain that accompanies CFS and CD. In addition to prescription medications, seeking the help of a nutritionist will assist in managing the illness. It is common knowledge that a good diet can assist in recovering successfully from many illnesses – Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohns are no exception. A reasonable nutritional plan may not only include a diet of whole foods, but may also include nutritional supplements. Additionally, the CFS and Crohns sufferer may find relief with the assistance of alternative therapies. Hypnosis, yoga, massage and other forms of relaxation can provide much needed relief from symptoms.

Although Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohns cannot yet be cured, sufferers can successfully manage their illness using a multi-pronged treatment approach. Being among some of the most difficult illnesses to manage Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Crohn’s Disease management involves several major lifestyle changes. Commitment to these lifestyle changes may well be the key to ending, or at least, minimizing the suffering.