Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

October 31, 2023

Chronic fatigue disorder is a disorder that is characterized by extreme fatigue that does not seem to be caused by any medical condition. The fatigue does not improve with rest and may become worse with both mental and physical activity. Although it is unknown what causes chronic fatigue syndrome, some theories include improper diet, hormonal imbalance, thyroid problems, physiological stress, viral infections or a combination of many factors. Chronic fatigue syndrome does not necessarily use a specific test to determine its diagnosis. A ruling out of other tests with diseases that have similar symptoms may be the best way to get a diagnosis. Better understand what this condition is now.

What Are The Symptoms Of Chronic Fatigue?

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The eight symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are memory loss or trouble concentrating, chronic fatigue no matter how often a person rests, a sore throat, unexplained muscle pain, enlarged neck or armpit lymph nodes, headaches, joint pain, disrupted sleep, and extreme exhaustion that lasts for more than twenty-four hours after mental or physical exercise.

Viral infections have been associated with chronic fatigue syndrome because some individuals are more likely to develop the condition after a viral infection. Viruses that are linked to chronic fatigue syndrome include Epstein-Barr virus, herpes virus 6 and leukemia.

Keep reading to learn about the causes that lead to chronic fatigue.

What Causes And Contributes To Chronic Fatigue?

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Problems with immunity may also be a contributing factor in the development of chronic fatigue syndrome. When the immune system is low, many people tend to feel chronically fatigued. It also makes developing a viral infection more likely. Hormonal imbalances may cause abnormal levels of hormones in the blood. These imbalances may cause chronic fatigue.

Risk factors for developing the condition include individuals in their forties or fifties and those with high-stress levels. Women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. Side effects or complications of the disorder aside from being chronically exhausted include frequent missed work days, depression and social isolation, and a restricting lifestyle.

Reveal how to receive a proper diagnosis for chronic fatigue syndrome now.

Get A Proper Diagnosis

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A person who experiences excessive fatigue, infections or physiological disorders may want to get checked by a doctor for chronic fatigue syndrome. It may be helpful to write down any signs or symptoms before seeing a doctor, as well as possible factors that may have contributed to the disease. Before giving a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome, a doctor may first rule out sleep disorders or restless leg syndrome, medical problems such as an underactive thyroid, anemia and diabetes, and mental health issues that include anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Next, learn how to effectively treat this condition now.

Treatments And Prevention

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There are many restful ways to treat and prevent chronic fatigue syndrome. Medications may be prescribed to treat chronic fatigue syndrome. These include antidepressants or sleeping pills. A therapist may suggest different exercise to promote relaxation as well. Numerous herbal remedies may also be used to reduce fatigue including acupuncture, massage, yoga, and tai chi. Improving sleep habits by going to bed at the same time and waking up at the same time daily may also further help and prevent chronic fatigue syndrome from worsening. Finding ways to reduce stress may also help promote relaxation and prevent this condition from progressing, as well as diet therapy might be useful as well.

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