Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Should You Be Worried?

Feeling exhausted can be due to several reasons, such as physical exertion, lack of sleep, being overweight or obese, and periods of emotional stress.  

Taking certain medications can also cause fatigue, as well as consuming too much caffeine and not eating a nutritious diet. Some medical conditions can also cause fatigue such as anemia, sleep disorders, autoimmune disorders, and chronic fatigue syndrome, among others.  

 

 

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Extreme exhaustion that does not go away is usually the main characteristic of chronic fatigue syndrome. It usually does not go away with long rest, without any initial medical explanation. 

Researchers hypothesized that chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis, can be caused by contributing factors such as viruses, a weakened immune system, stress, and hormonal imbalances.  

Some viral infections that have been related to CFS are:  

  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)  
  • human herpesvirus 6  
  • Ross River virus (RRV)  
  • rubella virus  

Women are more likely to get a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome as compared to men. People in their 40s and 50s are also at risk. Other risk factors for the health condition include:  

  • Genetic  
  • Allergies  
  • Stress  
  • Environmental factors  

 

 

Manifesting Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  • Muscle joint or pain  
  • Unrefreshing night’s sleep  
  • Memory or thinking skills issues  
  • Extreme exhaustion after physical or mental exercise  
  • Dizziness that worsens with sudden movements 

 

 

Are There Treatments Available?

There is no specific cure as of now for chronic fatigue syndrome. Your healthcare providers will provide the best treatment for you.  

You can also make some lifestyle changes such as limiting or eliminating caffeine intake, including nicotine or alcohol.  

Creating a sleep routine could also be beneficial, with the aim of going to bed at the same time every night.  

 

 

SOURCE:  

https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-fatigue-syndrome#treatment  

https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/when-should-you-worry-about-fatigue#:~:text=Even%20a%20week%20of%20feeling%20more%20tired%20than,or%20two%2C%20it%27s%20time%20to%20see%20your%20doctor.%20https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/is-my-constant-exhaustion-normal  

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-fatigue-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20360510  

Share This