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 all who have 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

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:

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.

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.