Chronic fatigue syndrome: Feeling tired after a strenuous day of physical activity is entirely normal. After a short rest period, you should feel better and ready for another round. However, suppose you are still experiencing tiredness, muscle pain, fatigue, sore throat, headaches, enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or armpits, and worsening dizziness. In that case, you should consider a visit to your doctor. Your physician will want to run tests to rule out (CFS).
- CFS Relief – Provides temporary relief from the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, including fatigue, insomnia, exhaustion, memory loss and muscle weakness may take several weeks to see full results
- Full-Body Support – Symptoms of CFS include sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes, unexplained muscle pain, headache and unrefreshing sleep
To this day, no one knows the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome. Some experts believe it results from a viral infection because some infections exhibit similar symptoms. For instance, a sore throat, muscle aches, joint pain, and headaches are common symptoms.
Other symptoms that may be present are irritable bowel syndrome, brain fog, lack of concentration, memory issues, and feeling tired even after sufficient rest.
Currently, there is no known cure for CFS and many similar viral infections. Experts recommend boosting the immune system as a preventative measure against chronic fatigue syndrome. You can strengthen your immune system by taking vitamins and supplements, eating proper nutrition, and getting plenty of rest.
The following tips and home remedies can help boost the immune system and increase energy.
Natural Dietary Sources
- Consume raw fruits and vegetables. The immune system benefits immensely from the vitamins and minerals found in these foods.
- Make sure to drink eight glasses of water daily, which helps flush out problematic toxins.
- Eat raw yogurt rich in Acidophilus to keep the good bacteria in your digestive system operating optimally.
Get Plenty of Exercises
Try to aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. Exercise is essential for keeping your muscles and joints healthy, which also helps to stave off chronic fatigue syndrome. If exercising every day is not ideal for your situation, try for 30 minutes at least thrice weekly.
Most people assume that going to the gym is the only way to hit their exercise quota. However, this is not so. There are plenty of other ways to get your recommended daily activities, such as:
- Integrating a brisk walk into your daily routine
- Using the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible
- Instead of walking your dog, jog with your dog instead
- Do abdominal crunches and triceps dips while watching television
- Be creative. Pump up the music and dance while cleaning your home
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Herbal Remedies and Supplements
Some natural herbal remedies and supplements help boost the immune system, such as Ginseng Root, Goldenseal, and Echinacea. Continuous use of these supplements is an excellent way to help support proper immune function and potentially protect against CFS.
Although these herbal therapies work well, they take time. Follow directions and be patient. For example, experts recommend that Echinacea not be utilized for more than six to eight weeks, so check with a natural health practitioner before taking this herb.
In addition, joint pain sufferers find relief when taking Glucosamine, Devil’s Claw, and Chondroitin. Vitamin C and zinc supplementation are also beneficial for a healthy immune system.
It is widely known that taking essential fatty acids like Omega 3, 6, and 9 is excellent for your brain and cognitive function. Still, they are also crucial in lubricating the joints inside and out. These supplements are great for people suffering from muscle pain and soreness associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Frequently Asked Question
What’s the current thinking on the underlying cause of chronic fatigue syndrome?
Research identifies CFS as a complex, multi-system condition rather than one with a single cause. Key areas under investigation include:
Immune system dysfunction: Persistent low-level inflammation, unusual immune cell activity, and viral links are being explored.
Neurological abnormalities: Research centers on how the brain handles fatigue signals and pain processing.
Metabolic problems: Studies look at possible disruptions in cellular energy production within the body.
Genetic predisposition: CFS often has familial tendencies, though specific genes are not yet pinpointed.
Is there a definitive test to diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome?
Unfortunately, there is no single diagnostic test. Diagnosis remains a process of careful exclusion. In addition to assessing your medical history and symptoms, your physician will also rule out other ailments with symptoms comparable to yours (like certain thyroid disorders, Lyme disease, etc.). Specific, internationally recognized diagnostic criteria, such as the Fukuda or Canadian Consensus Criteria, often support the diagnostic process.
I’ve heard about Pacing and Graded Exercise Therapy (GET). Are they helpful, and is there controversy?
Pacing and GET remain subjects of debate in the chronic fatigue syndrome community. Here’s what’s important to know:
Pacing: Involves careful energy management, spreading activity strategically throughout the day, and resting before reaching a crash point. This is widely considered helpful for managing symptoms and avoiding worsening crashes.
GET: This approach employs a program of gradually increasing exercise. Some studies have shown benefits for a subset of CFS patients. However, many with CFS experience worsening symptoms as GET can trigger Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM).
A personalized approach is vital: It’s essential to listen to your body and avoid activities that leave you exhausted or feeling notably worse.
Are there lesser-known symptoms of CFS that get overlooked?
Beyond the core fatigue, many with CFS experience symptoms across multiple body systems:
Orthostatic Intolerance: Dizziness, lightheadedness, rapid heartbeat, etc., upon standing.
Cognitive dysfunction (Brain Fog): Difficulty with memory, concentration, and finding words.
Sensory sensitivities: Heightened sensitivities to light, sounds, or smells.
IBS-like digestive issues: Bloating, stomach pain, irregularity.
Chronic fatigue syndrome seems invisible to many. How do I cope with people not understanding?
The lack of understanding can be disheartening. Focus on the following:
Self-advocacy: You’re the expert on your condition. Become skilled at explaining energy limits and politely declining to avoid situations that may exhaust you.
Seek a supportive community: Find CFS communities (online or in-person) for understanding and validation.
Educate your inner circle: Share specific resources with family and close friends so they can gain more significant insights into your illness.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. It would be best to not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- Immune Dysfunction Theories: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2970609/
- Neurological Abnormalities: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2020.00653/full
- Metabolic Issues: https://www.nature.com/articles/nrendo.2016.185
- Genetic Influence: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050601/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website: https://www.cdc.gov/me-cfs/
- Solve ME/CFS Initiative https://solvecfs.org
- MEAction Network website: https://www.meaction.net
- Orthostatic Intolerance: https://www.dysautonomiainternational.org/page.php?ID=44
- PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API