When a child regularly feels down and does not exhibit an interest in playing or going to school, it may already be signs of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). This is a complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue and is not improved by bedrest. It may even be worsened by strenuous physical activities or excessive mental exertion. Children with CFS usually functioned at a much lower level of strength even before the onset of the illness. A child suffering from CFS may also show signs of general weakness, muscle pain, impaired memory or poor mental concentration, insomnia, and post-exertion fatigue that lasts for more than 24 hours.
To better understand this mysterious illness that afflicts thousands if not millions of children around the world, a team of researchers conducted a study to determine the connection between this specific illness to stress and emotional abuse. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), childhood trauma increases the child or adults' risk of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome by three to eightfold. A separate study based on the data from the Swedish Twin Registry shows that stress is a triggering factor for the said fatigue syndrome. It also shows that emotional instability is a significant CFS risk factor, although genetic and family factors also determine whether this personality trait leads to excessive and regular fatigue. Researchers from CDC support the hypothesis that CFS represents a disorder of adaptation that is promoted by early environmental factors such as lack of nutrition and emotional support --- which, later on, leads to failure to adequately respond to physical, mental, and emotional challenges.
In their separate study, researchers Karolinska Institute have found that stress is a significant risk factor for chronic fatigue-like illness, the effect of which may be buffered by genetic influences. Emotional instability recorded 25 years earlier among research subjects has been associated with chronic fatigue through genetic mechanisms contributing to both personality style and expression of the disorder. To study was culled from a community-based sample of more than 56,000 residents of Wichita, Kansas. At the time of the study, they had identified 43 people with ongoing CFS. For the study, they compared these people to 60 matched people without fatigue. A key finding was that severe childhood trauma was linked to a higher risk of CFS. There was an eightfold higher risk of CFS with childhood sexual abuse, a 5.9-fold higher risk of CFS with childhood physical neglect, a 4.6-fold higher risk of CFS with childhood emotional neglect, a 4.3-fold higher risk of CFS with childhood physical abuse and a 2.9 fold higher risk of CFS with childhood emotional abuse.
These studies also suggest that CFS is part of a spectrum of disorders that are associated with childhood adversity. In adulthood, these disorders frequently manifest or worsen in relation to acute stress or challenge. These disorders might reflect the brain's inability to adapt or compensate in response to challenge, leading toward maladaptive responses and ultimately disease.
Other studies made on more than 19,000 twins born in Sweden revealed that emotionally instability was linked to a 72% higher risk of CFS symptoms. Emotional instability is a personality trait and tends to result in low self-esteem and feelings of anxiety, depression, and guilt. In conclusion, emotional instability is a serious risk factor for CFS, whether a person with this personality trait actually gets CFS depends on unknown genetic and family factors. Thus, emotional instability is an indirect risk factor for CFS, while stress is a direct risk factor.
While the cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is not known, herbal remedies are becoming more and more popular as an effective form of alternative therapy. They are especially beneficial when it comes to encouraging the strength of the immune system and fighting different types of viruses. Various herbs can be used alone, or in conjunction to manage a wide variety of symptoms. Before trying herbal supplements, check with your doctor to make sure you don't have a condition which would prevent you from taking them.
Astragalus is very effective at encouraging the proper workings of the immune system. While Astragalus is wonderful for treating the symptoms of the flu and head colds, it should not be taken when the individual has a fever. Astragalus encourages the production of white blood cells. White blood cells are critical to getting rid of pathogens once they have gotten into the body. The suggested dosage of Astragalus is 150 to 250 milligrams three to four times per day.
Burdock root, dandelion, and red clover when combined as a tea help to encourage swift healing. In combination, these three herbs support proper immune system functioning, and also help cleanse the bloodstream. Depending on preference, you can also try mixing any pair to see if one tea works better than another. For optimal effect, drink four to six cups daily.
Ginkgo biloba helps to improve brain function, and also circulation. Thus, it may help with memory and other cognitive impairments associated with an active bout of CFS . Milk thistle is excellent for protecting the liver, and that in turn assists the body to properly metabolize proteins and other nutrients. Pau d'arco, a lesser known herb, is excellent for helping to get rid of bacterial infections that are the result of an overgrowth of Candida albicans.
Ginseng is one of the most beneficial overall herbs for chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers. The advantages of a particular brand of Ginseng depend on the region in which the root is grown. As an example, Chinese (or Korean) ginseng helps to increase energy levels in the body. It is also helps one to cope with high levels of stress. Chinese Ginseng is well known for its enhancement to immune system function. It is also excellent at fighting any number of viral infections.
This is a very strong herb that requires some caution in selection and consumption. It should not be used if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or hypoglycemia. If you are sensitive to caffeine or other stimulants, Chinese (or Korean) Ginseng may not be safe for you to take. When choosing a brand of Ginseng, choose a standard extract made up of seven percent ginsenosides.
Siberian ginseng is another form of ginseng that enhances the ability to cope with disease, stress and fatigue. Siberian ginseng contains very potent antioxidant properties not found in Chinese Ginseng. Siberian Ginseng has been known to greatly increase the mental alertness of a chronic fatigue sufferer. Always choose a standardized extract of Siberian ginseng that has as its components, 0.5 percent eleutheroside E. Siberian Ginseng has its optimal potency at 100 to 200 milligrams twice a day. The best times to take Siberian Ginseng are in the morning and then again in the afternoon.
The combination of bee pollen, carrot juice, and kelp help to give a person energy if they find themselves fatigued and worn down. Those that have low blood pressure will also find a nice perk-up from this combination.
Despite the fact that people with CFS need more sleep than average, insomnia is prevalent. Two herbs that help to improve the quality of a person's sleep are skullcap and valerian root. These can be taken either together or separately; as both are highly effective.
While herbal supplements may not cure CFS , they can help mitigate the symptoms of an active bout, and hence, improve the quality of life. Many herbal supplements enhance the immune system, boost energy levels, and aid with mental functioning. Thus, selecting even one or two herbs may help the person with CFS to manage their symptoms effectively.
Both Cristel Lumabas & Scott Meyers are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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