For the thousands of individuals who currently suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), the causes of this mysterious illness remain a mystery. Reputable medical institutions, including the Centers for Disease Control have launched research efforts into discovering the reasons why some individuals contract CFS and what can be done to alleviate the symptoms.
Originally termed "yuppie flu" by the media, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome was thought to be caused by the Epstein Barr virus, or mononucleosis. In the late 1980's, it appeared that the only individuals who suffered from yuppie flu were the young, upwardly mobile, urban professionals who, because of their busy lifestyles, of course were tired! With further investigation, medical professionals discovered that many other individuals were suffering from the unexplained symptoms of this illness. Even though the medical community has published studies that bolster the reality of this illness, sufferers continue to find that the "yuppie flu" designation still prevails.
Many individuals who suffer from CFS have reported that they became ill with a virus before later noticing the symptoms now attributed to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Researchers now believe that a virus, although not responsible for CFS, may cause damage to the neurological system of the individual who later suffers from symptoms of CFS.
During the course of what may well be a relatively harmless virus, areas of the brain may sustain damage which then results in the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. For some reason, this damage may be permanent or transient - or at least the symptoms caused by the damage may be. Some individuals who suffer from CFS find that their symptoms may lessen or completely disappear in time, and still others find that they may experience a "remission" of sorts, only to have the symptoms reappear at a later time.
This "Brain Injury" theory is the most prevalent at this time and appears to provide the most rational explanation for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome to date. As the control center of the body, the brain, when unable to function normally, can cause a host of mysterious symptoms that are unexplained by any known medical illness. Further research into the causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome should provide the answers to why some individuals suffer from this brain injury and others do not.
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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a disease that was first named in the 1980s. Even now, as increasing numbers of people are being diagnosed with CFS, many people inside and outside the health professions still doubt its existence or maintain that it's a psychological ailment. People previously healthy and full of energy may experience a variety of symptoms, including extreme fatigue, weakness and headaches as well as difficulty concentrating and painful joints, muscles and lymph nodes. Typically CFS follows a viral infection (e.g. cold or viral stomach bug), and is sometimes found after mononucleosis infections. Non-specific symptoms of fatigue , tiredness , exhaustion , and aches make CFS difficult to diagnose and similar to other conditions such as lupus , multiple sclerosis , fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. People with CFS are often unable to perform normally at work and home because of their long-term fatigue and problems with short-term memory. The hallmark symptoms of CFS are overwhelming fatigue and weakness that make it extremely difficult to perform routine and daily tasks, like getting out of bed, dressing, and eating. The illness can severely affect school, work, and leisure activities, and cause physical and emotional symptoms that can last for months or even years.
Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
The common Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome :
Changes in the levels of hormones produced in the hypothalamus, pituitary glands or adrenal glands.
Iron deficiency anemia.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Virus infection, such as Epstein-Barr virus or human herpesvirus.
Dysfunction in the immune system.
Mild chronic low blood pressure (hypotension).
History of allergies.
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Some Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome :
Headache.
Muscle and joint aches.
Persistent fatigue.
Fatigue from exertion.
Intermittent fatigue.
Tiredness.
Fatigue.
Tender lymph nodes.
Inability to concentrate.
Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Adjusting your daily routine so that you have regular sleep patterns can help.
Over the counter painkillers can help to ease muscle and joint pain and headaches. Stronger painkillers can also be prescribed by your GP, although they should only be for short-term use.
Medications to treat anxiety (antianxiety drugs)
Antidepressants can be useful for people who have depression with CFS.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may identify the thoughts and feelings causing certain behaviour, and help you develop new ways of coping. It's one of the most effective treatments for CFS.
Pacing is an important way of controlling symptoms. It means finding a balance between activity and rest, and avoiding large bursts of exercise that may set you back. Learning how to make the most of your energy can help to increase the amount you can do.
Medications to reduce pain, discomfort, and fever.
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