What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
As the name suggests, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is a long-term illness where people find themselves extremely fatigued. People who are diagnosed with this illness tend to experience fatigue for a minimum of 6 months. But it’s much more than just feeling tired. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome comes with a whole host of other symptoms that can include trouble sleeping or insomnia, problems concentrating, memory issues and mood swings.
Other common symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome include:
- Having enlarged lymph nodes around the neck or the armpits
- Constant headaches
- Joint pain
- Unexplained muscle pain
- Feeling exhausted for 24 hours or more after an event
- Sore throat
- Light sensitivity
- Flu-like symptoms
- Feeling dizzy or sick
- Fast or irregular heartbeats
- Noise sensitivity
This condition is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) and can affect anyone, including children. However, it’s more common in women, and tends to develop between your mid-20s and mid-40s.
What causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
The cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is frustratingly unknown, although there are many theories that range from viral infections to psychological stress. Some researchers believe that chronic fatigue syndrome is linked to issues with the immune system but this research is ongoing. Many experts believe that Chronic Fatigue Syndrome might be triggered by a combination of factors rather than having one single source.
Treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and so treatment focuses on addressing the symptoms. Below are some treatment options that you can consider:
Improving mental health
Many people suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome also deal with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Taking steps to improve your mental health, whether that is some form of therapy or by starting medication can offer some relief from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome symptoms such as pain and problems with sleeping.
Changing lifestyle habits
Some of the physical symptoms of the illness can be managed by getting started with low-intensity exercise programs that don’t aggravate their physical pain. For example, gentle exercises like walking, yoga and swimming. A gradual increase in physical activity can offer improved long-term functionality.
Improving diet
Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can help ease some of the symptoms associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Additionally, eating smaller, regular, healthy meals can make people feel that they have more energy and even improve sleeping patterns. You may find that some foods can aggravate your symptoms and cause flare ups. Avoiding things like caffeine and alcohol may also help.
Stress management
Staying calm can help you find relief from some of the side effects of chronic fatigue syndrome and so it’s important to stay away from situations that could bring on anxiety and stress. It may be helpful to incorporate stress management solutions into your life such as meditation.
NAD+ therapy
For the last couple of decades, doctors have used NAD+ IV infusions to help alleviate the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. NAD+ infusions help to boost and manage energy levels, improve immune system functionality, and improve sleep quality and cognitive function. NAD+ Anti Fatigue IV Infusion Therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
It’s worth noting that none of the above treatments are quick and absolute fixes for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. However, incorporating one or a combination of the above into your lifestyle can help you feel a gradual improvement in your symptoms as time passes. It’s all about trial and error and finding which type of treatment works best for you.