If you elect to try different forms of therapy, your physician may know of a healer in the community that specializes herbs and other forms of holistic medicine. In some European nations, these healers are known as osteopaths. He/she or even your physician may also be able to help you understand some of the materials and information you come across.
If you have health insurance, their medical management staff may also have done some research on these topics, or they may have osteopaths enrolled as providers. Always take the time to do quality research. While the internet is an incredible tool for finding all kinds of information, some sites are more accurate than others. Your local library may also have some good books and magazines to start with. Information is power, and the more you are armed with, the better.
Since the immune system seems to be one of the most targeted by CFS , this article will discuss three of the best herbs for encouraging the immune system to kick into gear. These three herbal supplements (Echinacea, goldenseal, and licorice root) are also useful in fighting viral infections. People who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome need to do everything they can to avoid sickness. A respiratory infection or stomach disorder can lead to an even more depleted level of energy.
Echinacea is especially effective when an infection is present. It helps to protect the body's cells by keeping bacteria, viruses and other pathogens out. Many studies have shown that Echinacea is often very successful at strengthening a weakened immune system, as well as warding off the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It has been known to bring relief to many patients. The recommended dose of this herb is 15 to 20 drops dissolved in liquid. This should be taken three times a day for a period of two days. To get the required amount another appropriate dosage would be 300 to 325 milligrams three times a day.
Goldenseal and Echinacea are sometimes sold together and other times as separate herbs. When goldenseal is sold by itself, be sure to select one that is alcohol free. Goldenseal is extremely effective when it comes to controlling a viral infection. When a person first senses that they are coming down with a sore throat they should consume a few drops of goldenseal. Drop it into your mouth and hold it there for a moment before swallowing. Goldenseal is meant for specific health problem, and therefore, not meant to be taken on a constant basis. Goldenseal should not be taken more than one week at a time. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid using the herb goldenseal, as should those who have a history of glaucoma, heart disease or diabetes. If a person who has diabetes or heart problems does decided to use this herb to improve their health, it should always be done under a doctor's close supervision.
Licorice (or licorice root) is not the same as the candy licorice. The herb licorice root helps to support the proper functioning of the endocrine system. Much like goldenseal, this herb is very potent. If used daily it should be taken no more than seven days at a time. Those with high blood pressure should stay away from it entirely. If a doctor or an alternative healthcare practitioner recommends licorice root it will also be necessary to consume a variety of foods that are rich in potassium.
Herbal supplements are just one of the many alternative medicines that a patient suffering from CFS can investigate. With the help of a physician or doctor of osteopathy, and some research, the possibilities are almost limitless. Three herbs to consider at the outset are Echinacea, Goldenseal, and Licorice Root, as all three enhance immune system function.
Not so long ago Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CfS) was described as the "yuppie flu". It was the type of illness that only the rich and famous could afford to have. Today, it is estimated that more than 800,000 individuals suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome. According to the Center for Disease Control, well over 50% of these individuals are women. While lung cancer, HIV, multiple sclerosis (MS), and lupus frequently grab the spotlight as prevalent among women, CFS is a much more common than all of them.
Unfortunately, less than 10 percent of people with CFS have been properly diagnosed, and therefore are not receiving adequate care. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a form of fatigue that has no apparent explanation, but appears to have a set of symptoms or factors that are in common from person to person. A diagnosis of CFS will only be made when no other illness or health condition can be found as the cause of the extreme tiredness.
At this stage, doctors and scientists do not know the exact cause of CFS. What we do know is that it is an illness, or perhaps collection of illnesses defined by both "profound as well as prolonged exhaustion". Studies have shown that chronic fatigue syndrome is as prevalent among Hispanics and African Americans as it is among those who are white. It has not been proven conclusively, but it is believed that CFS may run in families, hence a possible genetic predisposition. On the other hand, it does not appear to be contagious in the way that the common cold is.
Individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome experience a number of common symptoms or factors. If a person experiences four or more of the following symptoms then a diagnosis of CFS is generally made.
The most common symptom is prolonged fatigue that lasts for six months or more. While most people feel tired from time to time, and may need to "sleep in" on occasion, people suffering from CFS require much more sleep and rest. These people constantly wake up in the morning feeling un-refreshed. This feeling will not improve simply by forging on into the shower or gym, keeping busy, or having an extra cup of coffee.
The tiredness of someone with CFS may also bring with it cognitive issues. Individuals suffering with CFS report significant problems with focusing on tasks. They may also experience difficulties with short-term memory; and other impairments.
Another factor individuals with CFS have in common is the way they recover from exertion. Most people will recover from performing a function within a predictable amount of time. That recovery also tends to be in a positive direction. An individual with CFS, on the other hand, will find they actual become more tired, and their other symptoms will get worse. This tends to be most noticeable during the first 24 hour period after the exertion. This is referred to as "post-exertional malaise".
Individuals with CFS often experience flu-like symptoms and other health issues. These symptoms do not improve within a few days or weeks. Rather, the general feeling of illness lingers. While the person with CFS does not carry HIV, they may still find themselves with a compromised immune system, tender lymph nodes, and sore throat.
Headaches also appear to be another symptom of CFS. These tend to be more severe than headaches from the past, or they have a different pattern altogether. Pain that occurs in joints that is not accompanied by redness or swelling, and muscle pain, in conjunction with other symptoms may also indicate the presence of CFS.
Because the origin and exact cause of CFS are unknown, it tends to only be diagnosed as such after all other types of health conditions are ruled out. While women appear to outnumber men in having this illness, CFS is still an "equal opportunity" disease. It affects people all across the globe regardless of ethnic or racial group.
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