Stop Chronic Fatigue

Posts Tagged ‘Chronic Fatigue’

Fibromyalgia is a serious medical condition and is generally associated with low serotonin levels. Fibromyalgia, formerly know as fibrositis, is a common and chronic condition affecting the muscles. Fibromyalgia affects about 3 million to 6 million people in the United States each year. The disorder mostly affects women, aged 30 to 59 and typically develops in early-to-middle adulthood. Fibromyalgia pain is more common in the trunk, neck, low back, hips, and shoulders, and it is rare in the hands and feet.Symptoms Of FibromyalgiaThe symptoms of fibromyalgia resemble those of rheumatoid arthritis and due to this fact, fibromyalgia may be misdiagnosed. However, unlike people with physical illnesses, the people with fibromyalgia seem to be in perfect health. Fibromyalgia usually displays a variety of symptoms including generalized aches and pains, increased sensitivity of the skin, chronic fatigue, weakness or dizziness, muscle stiffness or joint pain and migraine headaches. Symptoms of fibromyalgia vary greatly between individuals but almost all suffer from an associated sleep disorder. Depression, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, numbness and tingling of the extremities and heightened sensitivity to stimuli may also be present.Other physical symptoms of fibromyalgia are:  lack of concentration, body weakness, decrease of the short-term memory, accelerated heart rate, nausea, abdominal pain and bloating, vomiting and diarrhea.Fibromyalgia TreatmentsThe treatment of Fibromyalgia is focused on improving the health of the person and minimizing the symptoms, especially sleeping disorder, which is believed to cause the occurrence of other symptoms. The natural treatment options fall into four categories that create balance in the body: exercise, diet and nutrition, stress management, and rest.Fibromyalgia treatments mostly consist of painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (used solely for their analgesic properties). However, apart from intense pain, many people with fibromyalgia complain about having trouble sleeping and feel a pronounced state of fatigue throughout the whole body. Therefore, in some particular cases, fibromyalgia treatments may include sedatives in order to correct the patients’ sleeping problems.Since Fibromyalgia is still largely a mysterious condition, even to the medical community, it is beneficial to try and find an organization or doctor who specializes in treatments aimed specifically at fibromyalgia patients.Nutrition is very important with this condition as with any serious physical condition. Avoid caffeine products, sugar, processed foods and fried foods. Low blood sugar (Hypoglycemia) is often a factor in causing the person with Fibromyalgia to feel fatigued. That is why a good nutrition program is very important, eating frequent small meals with some protein is very important in keeping the blood levels even.The Fibromyalgia Treatment Centers of America is based in Chicago and offers treatments based on an individualized multi-disciplined approach. They also advocate self-help through education and application by their patients.

Fatigue is a condition wherein a person experiences exhaustion and lack of energy possibly due to sleep deficiency, infection or overexertion. Since this is a fairly normal and common condition, most adults have experienced fatigue at least once in their lifetime. However, a person who continues to suffer from severe fatigue for an extended period of time of at least six months maybe affected by a more serious condition known as chronic fatigue.
Most people who are afflicted with chronic fatigue usually suffer from a more serious condition, which includes fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
In order for us to know how to beat chronic fatigue, we first need to look into what causes this condition. Here are the most common reasons why people suffer from chronic fatigue:
Infections
Some viral and bacterial infection could cause chronic fatigue. Most athletes are more susceptible to such a condition when suffering from an infection as a result of heavy training and exertion. However, chronic fatigue usually disappears once the infection is fully cured or treated.
Over-training
People who put their minds and bodies to the extreme usually suffer from chronic fatigue. Since athletes endure rigorous training and practice, they are the ones who usually experience chronic fatigue due to over training and exertion.
Depression and anxiety
Some experts link chronic fatigue to psychological disorders. Thus, people who suffer from severe anxiety and depression are the ones who are also stricken by chronic fatigue.
Dehydration
Many people do not pay attention to their daily water intake because they are not aware that dehydration could have long-term side effects, such as chronic fatigue, on their bodies and even their performance.
Eating disorders
The likelihood for people who have eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia, of suffering from chronic fatigue in the future is very high. Lack of proper nutrition is one of the causes of chronic fatigue, and people with anorexia and bulimia surely have inadequate supply of vitamins and minerals in their bodies.
Now that you know the common causes of fatigue, we should now start discussing the ways in which we could beat chronic fatigue. Follow the tips enumerated below and you will surely be able to manage such debilitating and long-lasting fatigue symptoms:
Eat a balanced and healthy diet
Food that is high in sugar and fat usually makes us feel sluggish and lethargic. Hence, prolonged intake of food that is high in sugar and fat could eventually result in the development of chronic fatigue and other serious diseases.
If you want to stay healthy and energetic, you need to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. To ensure that you have a steady supply of energy through the day, do not skip breakfast. Instead of eating three full meals, go for small but frequent eating.
Live a stress-free life
Figures from a research group in Sweden found that there is a close connection between stress and development of chronic fatigue later in life. Thus, if you don’t want to suffer from chronic fatigue in the future, you need to bring your stress levels down.
One of the ways to beat stress is to look for what is causing it. Marital or family problems could stress you out, so you need to find a way to remedy your problem with your mother, wife, husband or children.
For many people, work is their major stressor. Proper time management, ability to delegate tasks properly, and learning to deal with difficult colleagues are surefire ways to manage your stress from work. If you feel that you can no longer manage stress alone, you can solicit the help of your family, friends, or even a counselor.
Exercise regularly
Couch potatoes and people with sedentary lifestyles often develop chronic fatigue. Your body, particularly your heart, needs regular physical activities to make them perform at their peak. Moreover, exercise could help increase your energy levels naturally, because it aids in proper circulation.
Exercise does not only help in relieving tension, it also aids in releasing endorphins, a feel-good chemical, which generally reduces stress, increase pleasure and lessen pain.
Try alternative and natural remedies
You should not be afraid to try new things that could help you relax and make your body more energetic and stronger. Treat yourself to reflexology massage to help you relax and improve blood circulation.
If you are a little adventurous, you can try acupuncture. This is an ancient medical science practiced in China and the orient. Acupuncture helps in improving the flow of your chi and increase mental and physical strength.
Meditation and aromatherapy are good ways to bring your stress levels down. These methods could also give you inner peace and help you relax after a demanding day.

If you or a loved one is suffering with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, it is worth exploring the potential candida yeast chronic fatigue link.
Candida yeast can be harmless and co-exist on or in the human body for the majority of the time. However, if allowed to grow excessively then it can become a real cause for concern, and in some severe cases a candida infection can become life threatening if left untreated.
As well as being an uncomfortable infection it can also contribute towards a number of other medical problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, gas and bloating and also fatigue. In this article we will look more closely at just what the relationship is between Candida Yeast and Chronic Fatigue.
In some cases, where the actual clinical signs of a Candida yeast infection may not be obvious, they can still trigger other symptoms and complications.
Certainly, many people who suffer from a yeast infection but do not show the normal signs of the infection may find that they suffer from fatigue, become irritable, and can suffer from constipation or diarrhea or both plus many other symptoms.
However there are some researchers who are suggesting that a change in a person’s normally healthy levels of bacteria found in the intestine could play a part in a person suffering from the symptoms associated with Chronic Fatigue. These bacteria are a defense mechanism against bacterial infection, virus’ and yeast infections. They also play an important role in ensuring we maintain a strong immune system and an effective digestive function.
As yet there is no evidence to show which, if any, specific type of virus or infection is the single cause for a person to suffer from chronic fatigue.
Yet it has been shown that people who have CFS often have an elevated levels of anti-bodies to organisms which can cause Lyme disease, Candida (yeast infections), HHV-t (Herpes virus Type 6) along with Measles and Parvovirus.
So, the link seems conclusive, except that researchers have spent vast amounts of time looking at the possibility that some sort of virus of other infectious agents, for example Candida yeast is the cause of chronic fatigue. But at present there is no firm evidence to prove that this is the case.
The difficulty in diagnosing a link between chronic fatigue and candida, or any other infection is understandable. It is hard to spot a trend, as many people suffer from virus and yeast infection’s, but do not then go on to suffer with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Interestingly, there has been some research carried out that showed if a person follows an anti-candida diet, then it can help with the CFS symptoms.
These diets require a restricted intake of sugars, yeast products and processed foods. Although, this research was not carried out on a large scale, it does indicate that there can be benefits to changing to a healthy diet that can re-energize the immune system.
Continue reading to discover how to sign up to our free newsletter and discover natural ways to combat candida infections.
So, although there seems to be plenty of anecdotal evidence of a candida yeast chronic fatigue connection, there is no conclusive proof to that effect. The best advice that anyone can give is that you should react to any indication of symptoms of candida overgrowth and work to eliminate it as soon as possible. In this way you can minimize the risk of complications.

Chronic fatigue causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. Chronic fatigue is a common complaint of people with arthritis and rheumatic diseases. Risk factors that may cause or contribute to fatigue include: poor sleep, chronic pain, stress, depression, anxiety, inflammation, inactivity, diet, and drug side effects. Learn more about living and coping with fatigue.Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition of prolonged and severe tiredness or weariness (fatigue) that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other conditions. To be diagnosed with this condition, your tiredness must be severe enough to decrease your ability to participate in ordinary activities by 50%.Fatigue is an excessive feeling of tiredness, lack of energy, or exhaustion accompanied by a stong desire to rest or sleep. Many underlying conditions can cause fatigue and it is essential to find the cause.Some people with CFS develop a condition in which their heart rate increases and their blood pressure drops when they stand or sit up from a reclining position. This is often described as feeling “lightheaded” or feeling faint or dizzy. This condition is called orthostatic hypotension. Depression is common and can make your other symptoms worse. Antidepressant medicines can help you feel better. CFS began receiving widespread attention in the mid-1980s, after reports of about 100 cases in the Lake Tahoe area of California. Questions immediately arose as to whether the ill-defined mix of symptoms amounted to a discrete disease at all, and if so, whether it was a new condition.In addition to fatigue, there may also be muscle pain, joint pain not associated with redness or swelling, short-term memory loss, and an inability to concentrate. Some people with chronic fatigue syndrome also experience difficulty sleeping, swollen lymph nodes, and/or mild fever.The concurrent occurrence of four or more of the following symptoms: substantial impairment in short-term memory or concentration; sore throat; tender lymph nodes; muscle pain; multi-joint pain without swelling or redness; headaches of a new type, pattern, or severity; unrefreshing sleep; and post-exertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours. These symptoms must have persisted or recurred during 6 or more consecutive months of illness and must not have predated the fatigue.Allergic reactions to food, food intolerance (hypersensitivity), refined food, junk foods, food additives, and chemical contaminants in food can alter our moods and lead directly or indirectly to a constant state of low energy. People with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome frequently have sensitivities to foods, chemicals and other inhalants. These may be classical allergies – which are IgE (Immunoglobulin Type E)-mediated sensitivities or food intolerance (which is not IgE-mediated, so allergy tests, such as skin prick tests, are negative) and chemical intolerance are especially common.Most patients with FMS say that they ache all over. Their muscles may feel like they have been pulled or overworked. Sometimes the muscles twitch and at other times they burn. The pain tends to be felt as diffuse aching or burning, often described as head to toe. It may be worse at some times than at others. It may also change location, usually becoming more severe in the parts of the body that are used the most.

Malignant Toxic Stress. Lymphatic And Mitochondrial Failure
Extreme Case Study: Gulf War Syndrome.
All Fibromyalgia/CFS/GWS patients do have one major factor in common; Pre and post trigger infection they are/were also suffering from chronic toxic stress.
All human beings have a different genetic make up.
Most will also have the musculoskeletal issues which prevent them from effective detox as I discuss in my book.
Basically every human being has a different level of stress/toxic stress which they can cope with while remaining well. This is best illustrated using an extreme example.
Gulf War Syndrome (GWS)
1/ In the first gulf war, thousands of highly trained soldiers, mostly fit young men, were all exposed to massive programmes of vaccination in advance of entering theatre.
2/ Shortly afterwards while in the field, they were exposed to uranium tipped warheads, biological and chemical agents.
3/ To increase the toxic cocktail, massive oil fields were set alight around them by the fleeing Iraqis.
4/ It is a less documented fact that during tour of duty, soldiers ration packs contain insufficient nutrients to provide for many essential body function over an extended period. They concentrate mostly refined simple carbohydrates with protein.
5/ It is also the case that some of the food products delivered to the soldiers were in unsuitable packaging and stored in excessively hot conditions which may have released excessive quantities of heavy metals into their diet.
6/ Naturally it is reasonable to assume the extraordinary levels of stress that are created in all individuals in difficult war scenarios.
The results: A staggering 15% of these soldiers went onto develop Gulf War Syndrome which is basically a chronic version of Fibromyalgia/ CFS, as measured by CDC requirements.
Most of these soldiers were fit and strong at the time, so we can see that simply their genetic ability to detoxify in one of the most severe toxic environments on earth, varied to such an extent that 1 in 8 were so susceptible that they developed these long term conditions.
This of course is an extreme example of toxic stress.
The first gulf war represented the most toxic war in history and lessons have been learned.
Factors that are particularly relevant to this example would include genetic make up, state of health and lifestyle prior to going to war, health of the immune system and its innate ability to withstand toxic insult.
Age is a factor, fitness and even fat content are all relevant factors, but the biggest determinant for the Gulf War victims appears to be simple genetic make up.
So what would we consider are the external lifestyle factors that could affect an individuals level of toxicity, and insult the blood brain barrier to such a degree that one could develop Fibromyalgia/CFS/GWS?
Here is my list of the main offenders that I have found over the last 5 years.
They are listed in no particular order. They are all “malignant”.
1. Smoking cigarettes: 600 known toxins including Acetone, Ammonia, Arsenic, Benzene, Benzoapyrene, Butane, Cadmium, Formaldehyde, Lead, Propylene Glycol, Turpentine. Benzene is possibly the most linked toxin to cases of Fibromyalgia and CFS.
2. Excessive alcohol consumption: particularly yeast based drinks. Intolerance to the toxins produced by alcohol consumption is a recognised feature for these patients.
3. Volatile Organic Compounds: These include wood filler, car filler, but a lot of DIY products contain VOC’s. All products are required to advertise their VOC content.
4. Food additives: Cadmium. Allergies to wheat and dairy based products. Also aspartame, E951.
5. Environmental disasters: Burning of the Kuwait oil fields, uranium tipped warhead (anti tank missiles,) radiation leaks, chemical leaks from power stations etc.
6. Respiration: Glues, paints, white spirit, detergents, bleach. Anything containing benzene.
7. Heavy metal poisoning: These metals can accumulate in the blood and be stored in tissues. Worst offenders include aluminium, arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, copper, copper, iron, lead, mercury , nickel. Mercury from amalgam fillings is the most cited example, but as I have discussed one should not have them removed unless a blood test shows leakage, and they should be removed very carefully under strict medical conditions. Aluminium from old pots and pans can also be a serious problem. Food storage containers as indicated in GWS.
8. Pesticides and organophosphates: Implicated in Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and CFS/Fibromyalgia.
9. Solvents: Implicated again in MCS, CFS, and FMS.
10. Hair sprays, deodorants, spray paints: All contain chemicals whose long term inhalation has never been tested by humans and are linked to CFS/ FMS.
11. Anti baldness/ alopecia products: There has been a rise in the number of men who use products such as minoxidil/ spironalactone and the oral based finasteride a DHT inhibitor. Ketaconazole based dandruff shampoos. The long term effects of applying chemicals to the scalp has never been tested. Due to their proximity to the blood/ brain barrier, use of these products should be stopped immediately.
12. By products of exhaust fumes: Particularly diesel. Just as the toxins created by burning crude oil in the gulf affected hundreds of young American soldiers, atmospheric toxins are created every morning that 190 million Americans turn their cars ignition.
13. Vaccinations: Gulf war veterans having two or more vaccinations at the same time, particularly the anthrax vaccine, appear to be the ones most susceptible to go on to develop Gulf War Syndrome. Some vaccinations were produced with a mercury based agent included to improve delivery. This indicates that there is a connection between the level of toxic insult at a given time and the subsequent immune system dysfunction.
A feature of all the 13 toxic sources listed, is that they can cause a range of illnesses associated with various organ systems of the body, affecting and simultaneously damaging the kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, spleen etc.
Fibromyalgia/CFS/GWS Are indeed only one of the groups of conditions most associated with toxic exposure.
The most common effect of these toxic insults is a subtle brain damage which leads to the fatigue spectrum illnesses and associated symptoms of cognitive impairment, autonomic nervous dysfunction, headache, exhaustion, memory loss, insomnia, which activate the later detrimental effects on other organ systems including muscles and eventually the deepening and damaging long term impact of total mitochondrial failure.
Neurological Dysfunction and Intervention:
So what is actually happening in the brain, in the lead up to the “trigger” infective illness.
As toxins enter or are created within the body they begin to build up in the brains blood supply system, which is extremely sensitive to toxic insult.
The first port of call is the hypothalamus. This is consistent with all our scientific evidence because we know that the Hypothalamus is poorly protected by the blood brain barrier.
Why is the hypothalamus so important in Fibromyalgia/CFS?
Well the hypothalamus actually controls hormone production by continually checking blood levels of the various cocktail of hormones that are needed for different organ functions.
As it needs to monitor the blood so carefully and regularly it needs to be in very close proximity to it and this is the reason that “by design” it cannot be protected so well behind the blood brain barrier as other areas of the brain.
Once hormonal control is affected a whole range of things start to go wrong.
For example, the hypothalamus controls the pituitary gland, which in turn acts as the thermostat for the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland basically runs the body’s entire metabolism.
If signals reaching the thyroid gland are incorrect then all the problems associated with incorrect thyroid function will begin to become apparent.
As the body’s metabolism fails it is at this point that a Fibromyalgia/CFS trigger infection will most likely attack. And it is also at this point that you will likely identify yourself as becoming “ill”.
As stress levels increase rapidly during the initial infective illness, it can be seen that a negative feedback cycle is initiated.
This is where ideally my protocol combination would be initiated to break this downward cycle and limit the damage potential of your spiralling condition.
It is unfortunate that normally this does not happen.
As you will most likely already have discovered it may be several months before you have the faintest idea what has happened to you, you will have been through numerous diagnoses and doctors, and will have decided that it is only by your own intervention and dedication that you can recover.
And with my new model for intervention we can achieve precisely this.
In Part 3 we discuss the necessary interventions.

You can overcome chronic fatigue syndrome with the help of self-hypnosis. This approach can relieve intractable symptoms associated with CFS including overwhelming fatigue. Overcoming this condition takes effort and the first step is to consult your physician.

Medical Help with CFS

You can take a very important first step in treating this condition by visiting your physician. Your doctor can provide valuable information about your condition and ways for you to develop CFS self-help. One of the most important aspects of this is recognizing the problem.

The problem with diagnosing a condition like chronic fatigue syndrome is the symptoms vary from person to person. Some people suffer great difficulty with their immune system while others have headaches and other pains that top their lists of complaints. Nevertheless, the core problem is excessive fatigue.

Excessive Tiredness

Tiredness seems like an understatement, and it is considering the severity of your exhaustion. You may have great difficulty functioning on a daily basis because of the intractable tiredness associated with this condition. You may be among the many people who fail to get the medical attention the need.

It is easy to underestimate a condition that has tiredness as its major symptom. However, this is a serious condition that requires attention. You can compliment medical interventions with hypnosis.

Overcome Chronic Fatigue with Hypnosis

You can use hypnosis to deal with the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. This approach offers relief from the signs of CFS through the use of the subconscious mind. You are able to relax deeply in order to experience the restful state that you need to recharge.

People with CFS can benefit from listening to a hypnosis recording immediately before retiring for the night. The calming sounds and relaxing suggestions can help you lull into a deep, revitalizing sleep that can improve your wakeful hours significantly.

Other symptoms of the condition can be addressed as well. You can use your subconscious mind as a guide that allows you to work through your fatigue and other symptoms with ease. This approach is ideal because you can accomplish this on your own time and at your convenience.

Joseph Clough is a renowned hypnotherapist who uses beautifully chosen language and suggestions to help people deal with the symptoms of CFS. This recording found here – Overcome Chronic Fatigue – is a valuable tool for treating this condition. Another prime example of a helpful recording is available here – Help With CFS. This selection is by the late Duncan McColl, a world-class hypnotherapist. Other excellent selections are available here – CFS Self Help. Simply click on the links for more information.

Stress tends to set off major physical reactions that create chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome that involves chronic fatigue, generalized muscle aching, and stiffness. According to the 2000 American College of Rheumatology Fact Sheet, two percent of the United States population, primarily women of childbearing age, are affected by this syndrome.
Although criteria for the classification of fibromyalgia have been established, controversy exists as to whether this diagnosis represents a unique syndrome. The cause is unknown and no pathologic characteristics have been identified that are specific for the condition.
Treatment consists of attention to the specific symptoms reported by the patient. Some nursing aids may be used to treat the diffuse muscle aching and stiffness.
Tricycles antidepressants are used to improve or restore normal sleep patterns and individualized programs of exercise are used to decrease muscle weakness and discomfort and to improve the general deconditioning that occurs in these individuals.
Managing Treatment
Typically, patients with chronic fatigue fibromyalgia have endured their symptoms for a long period. They may if feel their symptoms have not been taken seriously. Nurses need to pay special attention to supporting these individuals and providing encouragement as they begin their program of therapy.
Patients support groups may be helpful. Careful listening to patient’s descriptions of their concerns and symptoms is essential to helping them make changes necessary to improve their quality of life.
The first step to minimizing fibromyalgia, is to develop an awareness of when and how the condition affects you. Then, take time to learn a few relaxation techniques and deep breathing. To facilitate healing, take time to perform these simple treatments.
1. Catch an afternoon nap
Experts say that people who get the afternoon swoon to put the phone on voice mail, turn the ringer off, and steal a 20 to 30-minute snooze.
The later in the day you nap, the more likely you will enter deep sleep, so it is better you nap in the early or midafternoon. The longer you sleep, the greater the chance you will enter deep sleep and wake up groggy and worse than before.
2. Watch your meds
Staying energized means paying close attention to everything that goes into your mouth, medications included. Antihistamines, high blood pressure drugs, and cough suppressants can all make you tired. But plenty of other common medicines can also leave you feeling lethargic.
Many people assume that their fatigue is coming from headache, arthritis, or whatever and do not realize that it is really coming from the medications. If you are taking medicine and often find yourself feeling groggy or low on energy, it is highly recommended that you should talk to your doctor about the side effects of medications and asking for alternatives to drugs that may be sapping your energy.
3. Break out boredom
It is all about exercise that is refreshing versus exercise that is not. That is why it is important to find some exercise that is enjoyable or challenging. Taking regular breaks throughout the week to engage in some exercise or other physically demanding, but interesting, activities should help prevent chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.
4. Feed the machine
Often, even the modest calorie restriction can lead to marginal vitamin levels. And if you are short on vitamins, you may feel tired as a result.
Consuming fewer than 1,800 calories per day is a risk factor for low-nutrient intake simply because nutrient intake is tied to calorie intake. Most health experts advices dieters who eat fewer than 1,800 calories per day must learn to take multivitamin or mineral supplement.
Fibromyalgia is a medical emergency necessitating early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to eliminate the causative factor; otherwise, the joint may be destroyed relatively quickly.
So the next time you feel stressed out, never hesitate to ask for a rest. The treatment of fibromyalgia is focused on the physiologic mechanisms that must be understood in the context of the body as a whole. The person, as a living system, has both an internal and an external environment, between which information and matter are continuously exchanged.
Hence, the goal of treating and managing chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia is best achieved within the interaction of the body’s subsystem to produce a dynamic balance or steady state. In this way, all subsystems are in harmony with each other and the probabilities of developing fibromyalgia are lessened.

Chronic fatigue, or myalgic encephalomyelitis, is a special and difficult type of ailment that is characterized by prolonged weariness that is not directly linked to any other serous medical condition.
Experts assert that it is a viral disease, because most of the reported cases occur after the patient has just gotten from a bout of other viral diseases, like cough, colds and influenza.
A patient suffering from chronic fatigue may experience the difficult symptoms of the disease for a few days. At its worst, chronic fatigue can last up to several weeks, especially it the illness is not appropriately treated.
Experts and researchers have established the usual symptoms that will indicate it’s onset among patients. These symptoms include: weight loss, tingling sensations, shortness of breath, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, night sweats, nausea, morning stiffness, jaw pain, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, diarrhea, chronic cough, alcohol intolerance, abdominal pain and bloating.
The patient is also expected to experience sleep disturbance, headaches, sore throat, inability to concentrate, enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits and neck, muscle soreness and great exhaustion following a regular exercise.
Chronic fatigue is divided into two types based on symptoms. The Sudded Onset type occurs abruptly and resembles a usual viral attack, similar to the symptoms of flu and other infection.
Gradual Onset manifests symptoms on a gradual pacing. Thus, patients acquiring this type of the disease don’t easily realize that they are already suffering from the viral ailment.
To know more about chronic fatigue requires knowledge about its origin. Among the usual causes pinpointed for the onset of chronic fatigue are: hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, low blood pressure, allergies, virus infection, dysfunction of the body’s immune system and iron deficiency anemia.
Hormonal changes in the adrenal glands, pituitary and hypothalamus are also cited for the onset of this disease.
Cure
There are numerous cures for chronic fatigue syndrome, but is advised that patients must consult their doctor before taking in any medication. Among the most common category of medications to treat it, anti-depressants are the most popular.
That is because anti-depressants surely help patients relax more even with their feeling of restlessness due to the onset of the viral disease.
However, there are also many forms of diet that can effectively help curtail the disease.
To start with, a patient can take a water cure diet. This form of diet is the simplest and can be easily executed as long as the patient is disciplined enough and determined.
The water cure diet would see that the patient must take water that is equivalent to half of the body’s weight. For example, the body weighs 150 lbs. The patient must then take ounces of water daily that is equivalent to 75 lbs.
It is also recommended that the patient take in at least a quarter of salt for about every quart of water that he drinks. The salt can also be used in food.
There is no restrictions in food intake, but the water cure diet restricts patients from drinking alcoholic and caffeinated beverages because they are diuretics.
Recommended food to include in diets
No special diets other than water cure is recommended for chronic fatigue patients. However, the patients are advised to avoid food groups that are considered toxic to the body.
These food group includes aspartame (a synthetic form of sugar), refined oils, food additives, chlorinated water, margarine and hydrogenated fats, junk foods, alcoholic and softdrinks and chocolates.
Instead, experts advise patients to include the following in their food intake: organic food, sea vegetables, olive oil, lemonade, maple syrup, seaweeds, vegetable juices, unrefined sea salt, and foods that are rich in essential fatty acids.
Knowledge of how the food replenishes the body will greatly help a patient understand more about the usual food and substances that are recommended to help the body cope up and recover from fatigue.
Sticking to the normal, healthy lifestyle would surely boost the function of the body’s immune system, making it more resistant to the future onset of the disease.

Most of us have experienced fatigue, especially after performing a very difficult and strenuous task, regardless of the physical condition of our bodies. Such fatigue is normal and only occurs when we have over exerted ourselves. However, sufferers of chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome, experience long-time – usually six months or more – debilitating fatigue.
CFIDS, short for chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome, is believed to be triggered or caused by viral infection, such as flu. Thus, suffers of CFIDS experience slight fever, sore throat and headache, severe tiredness, nutrition deficiency and muscle and joint aches. Some experts believe that CFIDS is linked to the herpes-like EBV, or Epstein-Barr virus.
Unlike bacteria, viruses cannot be cured by anti-biotic or other drugs. In fact, there is no known cure for viruses. Thus, people suffering from viral infections should boost their immune system in order to defeat the virus, which is self-limiting. Since CFIDS is linked to viral infections, one of the best ways to conquer the condition, or at least diminish the symptoms, is through natural remedies.
Ideal Diet For Chronic Fatigue Immunodeficiency Syndrome Sufferers
1. Eat more vegetables and fruits
Most, if not all illnesses, can be managed through eating nutritious and balance diet. Thus, you need to increase your intake of green leafy vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Fruits and vegetables are also good sources of vitamins and minerals that you badly need. It is also advisable that you minimize intake of sugar and processed food, which is usually high in fat and salt.
2. Choose high-quality protein
Fish, nuts, beans and soy products are good sources of quality protein, particularly because such food is low in saturated fat. Instead of red meat, you should try eating more chicken and fish, which can also contain omega 3, 6 and 9.
3. Drink plenty of water
The number of glasses of water our body need is about 8 to 10. Furthermore, choose water that is clean, such as spring or distilled water.
4. Increase intake of garlic and onion
You need to raise your intake of onion and garlic because these two are known for their virus-inhibiting abilities. You can take them raw or cooked. If you don’t like the taste of garlic and onion, you can just buy supplements that contain adequate amount of garlic and onion.
Exercise And Other Physical Activities
People who are suffering from CFIDS tire easily and are lethargic. Even if you have chronic fatigue immunodeficiency, however, it does not mean that all you have to do is rest and sleep all day. You need to combat your fatigue and lethargy by slowly adding exercises and physical activities to your everyday routine.
Adding at least 15-30 minutes of mild exercise per day, plus another 30-minute vigorous exercise or activity, such as aerobics, swimming, tennis, and brisk walking, could help make your heart stronger and function better.
Another thing you need to address, if you have CFIDS, is stress. If your stress level were high, other symptoms of your condition, such as insomnia, depression and general feeling of malaise, would more likely be intensified. Conquer your stress through stretching, relaxation exercises and meditation. You can also see a counselor to help you better manage stress.
Common Herbs Used To Treat Chronic Fatigue
Most of the medicines and drugs that we use come from herbs and plants. Hence, you should not be afraid to take herbal medicine and supplements. However, it would be advisable if you consult your physician first before taking anything. They need know what types and of herbs and dosage you are taking.
The following are suggested herbs, together with their dosage, that will help manage chronic fatigue:
Echinacea Root
This herb is known to boost the immune system. You can take this in tablet or capsule form, or as a tincture or tea. You need to drink Echinacea tea or tablets (two at a time) at least three times a day.
Ginseng Root
Ginseng is widely believed to increase energy. In fact, this is used in oriental countries as an aphrodisiac. A single dose, which should be not be taken together with vitamin C, twice a day is good for people who are suffering from chronic fatigue. For best results, you should take ginseng capsule or tablet on an empty stomach.
Licorice, Golden Seal and Poke Root can also be taken to help improve your condition.

There is significant concern about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as CFS. In fact, there are criteria patients must meet in order to be diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Receiving the diagnosis may be difficult for some patients because the guidelines for diagnosing are very specific. The fatigue must have been present at least six consecutive months and the corresponding symptoms must have developed after the fatigue. A clear definition of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, its symptoms, and treatment options will help sufferers get a clearer understanding of the syndrome.
What is Chronic Fatigue?
The basic definition of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome does not make sufferers feel much better. The syndrome is unexplained and is marked by weakness, fatigue, muscle pain, lethargy, trouble sleeping, and even fever and swollen lymph nodes. There is no known cause for the fatigue that is present in an individual that has no relation to over-exertion and is not rectified by rest.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have been discussed. However, there is a very long list. There are a variety of symptoms that patients are very aware of and then there are other symptoms only doctors seem to notice. Regardless, when the symptoms are present for a period of time for no apparent cause and seem to have no remedy then Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a frequent diagnosis.
Some of the frequent symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include:
- Muscle Aches- Persistent Fatigue
- Intermittent Fatigue
- Depression
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Swollen Lymph nodes
- Depression
- Memory Loss
- Weakness
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Achy Joints
Frequently Chronic Fatigue Syndrome begins during periods when individuals have been sick, under a tremendous amount of stress, or for no apparent reason at all. Many individuals have noted that after bouts with the flu, mono, a cold, bronchitis, hepatitis, and other similar illnesses CFS arises. Unfortunately, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome persists for months, sometimes coming and going and other times constantly affecting the patient. Other illnesses begin to clear up after a few days or weeks, but Chronic Fatigue Syndrome sticks around with no clear cause.
Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue
Doctors find it very difficult to diagnose Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The reason why is because so many of its symptoms are symptoms of other illnesses. This is why many doctors like to see patients with the same symptoms that began after the fatigue for at least six months before giving a diagnosis. Obviously, sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome find the lack of an early diagnosis difficult to bear on top of their symptoms. However, doctors like to rule out diseases like Lupus and Multiple Sclerosis, as well as other diseases, before diagnosing Chronic Fatigue.
Additionally, researchers and doctors are becoming more aware of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and are more likely to make an earlier diagnosis based on fewer symptoms than ever before. That is not to say that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is easy to diagnose, because it is not. However increased awareness and new definitions are helping doctors and patients of Chronic Fatigue each and every day.
Treatment Options
The treatment options for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are varied and include alternative as well as prescription alternatives.
Some of the alternative care management options for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include avoiding stress and undertaking light exercise. Other treatment options that work for some individuals include massage, aquatic therapy, chiropractic therapy, yoga, self hypnosis, tai chi, and even acupuncture. Psychotherapy has also proven helpful to sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome because it helps sufferers learn to cope with their symptoms.
Prescription treatment options for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have not been approved by the FDA. There are however other prescription medications that are used to treat the symptoms presented with Chronic Fatigue. Frequently, the primary use of the medicine is secondary and its side effects are what benefit Chronic Fatigue sufferers. Medicines like antifungals, antidepressants, antivirals, cardiac drugs, antihistamines, immunoglobulins, corticoids, anti-inflammatories, and anti-convulsants among others are frequently prescribed to CFS sufferers.
Do You Have CFS?
If you are worried you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or have some of the above stated symptoms for months on end then you should make an appointment with your physician. It is a good idea to keep a journal of your symptoms, when they began, and if new ones appear. This will help your doctor make the proper diagnosis and help receive some relief from your symptoms sooner.
Permission is granted to reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and the entire resource box is included.