Treating Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome
There is little physicians know about what causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), so treating CFS can be
difficult due to the unknown origin. There is also no known "cure" that will alleviate the symptoms altogether.
Physicians can treat the symptoms each patient presents with and therefore give the sufferer some measure of
relief. The known symptoms of CFS vary widely but include extreme fatigue, painful joints, headaches, cough, sore
throat, just to name a few of the many symptoms. Because the symptoms vary and are numerous the treatments are not
the same for everyone who has CFS. Patients have reported the greatest relief when the treatment plan includes more
than one type or method of treatment. Methods of treatment may include prescriptions, natural remedies, alternative
therapies and lifestyle changes.
There are no specific medications that are made just for CFS but physicians have used common prescriptions to
relieve some of the symptoms. The use of prescriptions has been further complicated by the fact that those who
suffer from CFS may also be more sensitive to the side effects of certain medications. Physicians choose a course
of medication therapy that will address the individual symptoms that the patient is experiencing. The prescription
plan may need to be adjusted if side effects are experienced or if the medication is not relieving the symptoms.
Finding a good fit between symptom and medication can take a while, so the patient must often endure a "trial and
error" period before they start to feel relief from some of their symptoms. Any treatment plan should not be
undertaken unless under the care and guidance of a physician.
Prescriptions That May Be Used
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anticonvulsants
- Antidepressants
- Antifungals
- Antihistamines
- Antiviral
- CNS depressants
- Corticoids
- Expectorants
- Immunoglobulins
Natural Remedies are using herbs, vitamins and minerals to alleviate pain and fatigue. Listed are a few of the
natural remedies that may be used:
Natural Remedies
Leopards Bane - used to minimize trauma but can also be used for soreness and muscle aches and generalized pain.
A combination of Aconite, Arnica, Bellis per, Bryonia, Magnesium phos, Rhus tox is used for stiffness and stress.
Aconite, Belladonna, Bryonia, Eupatorium perf, Ferrum phos, Gelsemium in a base of Lactose for fatigue and flu-like
symptoms.
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies are methods used to treat patients that are not necessarily the conventional method of
treatment known to be practiced by most physicians who treat the particular disease and may include:
- Acupuncture
- Aquatic therapy
- Chiropractic
- Massage
- Nutritional Supplementation
- Prayer
- Stretching
- Tai chi
- Therapeutic touch
- Yoga
- Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes are things we do to change the way we do daily tasks that help to ease pain, or give more energy
or improve something about our lives. Changes that can benefit CFS patients focus on alleviating their symptoms
through level of activity, exercise, rest and nutrition. Some changes that may help for CFS patients are making a
point to rest in between physical activities. Rest is different from bedrest. Periods of bedrest can lead to
experiencing more joint pain and stiffness. Rest means that you limit your activities as much as possible and put
your legs up and relax throughout your day. It is also important to avoid stress and anxiety. If situations are
known to increase levels of anxiety for you, it is best to try to avoid similar future situations. It may be
beneficial to learn relaxation techniques to calm your mind and relax your muscles. Another great lifestyle change
that can help with fatigue is to go through your daily tasks making note of any items that you can simplify.
Chronic Fatigue Fast Facts
What Is It Like For Those Who Suffer From Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
A common complaint from people who have been diagnosed with having Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is an overwhelming and extreme fatigue. A fatigue that is not associated with a busy day at the office or from running a 10-mile marathon. This is a fatigue that can be felt upon waking; a fatigue that has nothing to do with physical activity. The fatigue can keep you from living a normal, active life. It can even interfere with normal activities like getting dressed, making meals, or being able to...
|
Suggestions on how to Simplify
Save steps by doing tasks that are in the same area at the same time
Enlist helpers to do tasks that require physical exertion or are heavy
Pare down household tasks - instead of an elaborate multiple dish meal, try casseroles once in a while. Use
cleaners and tools that are lighter to hold and do multiple tasks.
| 
