Chronic Fatigue syndrome

What is it? Well i should have thought that to be a bit obvious from the name, but you may know it as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). Its a debilitating condition that affects many people. It tends to affect more women than men and currently there is no single treatment, instead doctors concentrate on an improvement of symptoms using a combination of treatments.

What are the symptoms?
Sufferers usually have severe fatigue (hence the name) that stops them from being able to live their normal lives. Other symptoms include, muscle aches and pains, irritability and mood swings,headaches,poor concentration, short term memory loss and can also cause depression.

There are factors that might cause this although there does not seem to be a single cause of this illness. It is usually several factors that cause the onset of ME. These include low adrenal gland function, food sensitivity, candidiasis, magnesium deficiency, essential fatty acid deficiency, vitamin B deficiency and also some psychological factors are involved. ME can start gradually but more often than not appears suddenly and can have quite devastating affects to a persons life.

It is important that if you think you, or someone you know, has ME to consult your doctor for a diagnosis, as the symptoms are similar to many other illnesses. ME is usually diagnosed by ruling out other causes of fatigue, so be prepared for an onslaught of tests.

There are things you can do yourself to help improve the symptoms, such as taking supplements like magnesium, essential fatty acids and vitamin B. it also might be worth visiting a Homeopath for treatment alongside what your doctor suggests. Herbal medicine has also been shown to help with the symptoms of ME. Some herbal practitioners treat the body, mind and spirit so keep an open mind when deciding on what treatments will suit you best.
Don't be offended if your doctor suggests some psychological treatments, this is not a suggestion on the doctors part to say this "is all in your head" it is in fact something that could help you not only to reduce symptoms and rule out any underlying psychological problem but could help you by talking to someone about ME and help you adapt your life so you can live as normally as possible.

Now the last thing you want to do when feeling tired is to exercise, but studies have shown that a graduated exercise program is beneficial. It has been shown to reduce fatigue and therefor improve quality of life.

As with all illnesses the treatment will depend on the individuals needs and circumstances. If you have been diagnosed then it might help to find a local support group and talk to others who understand and can offer you advice on how to cope daily and remember to pace yourself, set achievable goals, there will be bad days but there will always be good days too.

Learn more about this author, Sara Green.
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