Chronic fatigue is a medical condition characterized by extreme tiredness that doesn’t go away with rest. It is a complex disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The symptoms of chronic fatigue can vary from person to person, but they typically include fatigue, weakness, and brain fog, described as difficulty concentrating.
Chronic fatigue is a complicated disorder that causes extreme fatigue for six months or longer.
It is common for patients to experience a long uncomfortable journey of trying to get a diagnosis from many physicians. Studies estimate that as many as 91% of people remain undiagnosed. Even after an affirmative diagnosis, people have difficulty finding experienced physicians. They may be prescribed treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and graded exercise therapy (GET), which can worsen the condition.
Symptoms vary from person to person but may include:
- Exacerbation of exhaustion after physical or mental exercise
- Cognitive problems with memory, thinking, and decision making
- Chronic muscle and joint pain
- Unsatisfying sleep
- Headaches
- Sore throats and swollen lymph nodes
- Tender lymph nodes
- Dizziness
- Muscle or joint pain
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Sensitivities to food, medications, smells, and light
- Depression and mood disorders
Causes of Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
Many conditions cause chronic fatigue, and its symptoms can be a red flag that leads to a diagnosis of cancer, autoimmune disorders, adrenal insufficiency, anemia, chronic kidney disease, pulmonary diseases, Long-COVID, Lyme disease, and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). While one may be undergoing treatment for any of these conditions, a person will often seek a specialist to help address the side effects or compounding illnesses contributing to chronic fatigue.
Chronic fatigue syndrome, or ME/CFS, is a specific condition. Myalgic encephalomyelitis is a complex and debilitating illness affecting millions worldwide. The exact cause of this condition is only sometimes evident. Still, one theory suggests that a viral infection, such as the Epstein Barr, the herpes virus (HHV)-6, parvovirus B-19 and mononucleosis may trigger myalgic encephalomyelitis. Another theory suggests that the condition may be caused by an autoimmune response, where the body’s immune system attacks its own cells and tissues.
Other potential causes of myalgic encephalomyelitis include hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors such as exposure to toxins or stress. While much is still to be learned about this condition, ongoing research is helping to shed light on its underlying causes and potential treatment options.
Integrative Treatment for ME/CFS
The integrative physicians at Restoration Healthcare approach myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) treatment by taking a lengthy patient history and using unique diagnostic and laboratory testing tools to rule out conditions with similar symptoms and gain a clearer perspective on whether it is ME/CFS. For instance, they test for underlying infections, such as Lyme disease or Epstein-Barr virus.
They will then develop a plan of care combining conventional, complementary therapies to address the underlying causes of the disease. The plan may include functional neurology, IV Therapy, dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle modifications to support the body’s natural healing processes. In addition, integrative physicians may suggest mind-body techniques to help patients manage the stress and emotional impact of ME/CFS.
By taking a comprehensive approach to treatment, integrative physicians aim to improve the overall health and well-being of their patients with ME. In conclusion, myalgic encephalomyelitis is a complex and poorly understood illness that can profoundly impact the lives of those affected by it. While the exact cause of this condition is challenging to diagnose, Restoration Healthcare has experience in understanding the potential triggers and contributing factors and developing effective treatments to improve patient outcomes.
