Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex condition that can be very difficult to diagnose. A person with chronic fatigue is left feeling exhausted despite getting plenty of rest. The exact cause of the condition is unknown. There is no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome. At least one million people in the United States live with chronic fatigue syndrome. The disease is more prevalent in women in their 40s and 50s. However, all ages, genders, and races are affected. Research indicates that the disease is not contagious. More research is needed to determine if the disease is hereditary. Besides a fatigue feeling, patients may experience several other symptoms. There are eight symptoms directly associated with the condition. Headaches and muscle aches are common complaints in those with chronic fatigue syndrome. The lymph nodes in the armpit and neck may be tender and swollen. A normal night's sleep does not leave the person feeling refreshed. A sore throat may also accompany the condition. Exhaustion, physical or mental that lasts more than 24 hours is another key symptom of chronic fatigue.
Doctors cannot pinpoint the exact cause of this disorder in every patient. But there are numerous theories. The condition may be brought on by some type of infection, toxins, excessive mental stress, or excessive physical activity. Allergies, anemia, and depression are also believed to have a link to chronic fatigue. Some experts believe chronic fatigue is the end result of another disease. Although doctors cannot actually cure the syndrome, treatments are available. In many cases, the symptoms simply go away over time. Various medications and therapies are used to manage the symptoms. Antidepressants and counseling can help manage depression as well as cope with the debilitating effects of chronic fatigue syndrome. Each patient's treatment will depend on the severity of symptoms and other factors attributing to the condition.
Causes Of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The causes of this disorder are still not known by the scientific community. There are several individuals that may be born with a predisposition for the illness. This is because it happens because of a combination of factors. Some of the factors include viral infections. Some individuals get chronic fatigue syndrome after getting a viral infection. But some researchers have questioned whether any virus can cause such a disorder. The viruses which are blamed for causing this disorder include the Epstein-Barr virus. But there has been no conclusive link that can firmly establish this evidence. This disorder can also be caused by problems in the immune system. The immune systems of some individuals are slightly impaired, and this causes chronic fatigue syndrome in them. But it is not clear if this is enough to cause this disorder. One of the other issues is hormonal imbalances. Individuals with this disorder also sometimes get abnormal blood levels of their hormones produced in the adrenal glands, pituitary glands, or hypothalamus. But the importance of these abnormalities is still not known. Finally, it can be caused by emotional or physical trauma. Some individuals had said they had great emotional stress, surgery, or injury before their symptoms started.
Several factors may cause this disorder in people. One of them is age. This disorder can happen at any age. But it is most typical in young to middle-aged adults. Females are diagnosed much more with this disorder than males. But females may be more likely to report their symptoms to a healthcare provider.
Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
There is no proven cure for this disorder. The treatment for it focuses on relieving the individuals from their various symptoms. Some issues related to this disorder can be cured with either over-the-counter medications or prescriptions. Many individuals with long-term health issues such as this one are also depressed. Treating their depression can make it much easier for them to cope with their issues related to chronic fatigue syndrome. There are some low doses of antidepressants than can help to relieve pain and improve sleep. Some people with this disorder, typically adolescents, feel nauseous or faint when sitting upright or standing up. The medications to regulate the heart rhythms or blood pressure may prove good. Many people who suffer from chronic fatigue disorder can also get help from counseling. A counselor's help can assist in building coping skills that can help deal with chronic illness. It can improve the family dynamics and address the various restrictions at school or work. It can assist in managing depression.
Sleep deprivation can make the other symptoms a little more difficult to deal with. The healthcare provider may suggest changing the bedtime routine or avoiding caffeine. Any sleep apnea can also be treated by using a mask that gives air pressure while the person sleeps. Aggressive exercise regimens can lead to the symptoms worsening. But maintaining those activities that can be tolerated easily is vital to prevent deconditioning. The exercise regimens that begin at a very low intensity and then increase slowly over time may assist in improving the long-term function.
Conclusion
This disorder is being seen in many in recent times because of the tendency of people to keep on working while ignoring the needs of their bodies. It can be a symptom of a lot of disorders. If you are troubled with constant fatigue, you should see your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Taking some time off from your hectic schedule can also help ease off from chronic fatigue syndrome.
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