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Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as chronic fatigue and immune disjunction syndrome first came to public eye in the early 1980’s. It strikes mostly young,
urban professional, with Caucasian women under the age of 45 making up 80 percent of the cases. All segments of the population are at risk, including children. CFS is
characterized by overwhelming flu-like symptoms, but is not in any way contagious. The onset is very sudden and debilitating. Exhaustion felt by CFS suffers doesn’t result from overexertion and isn’t alleviated by medication. Typically the symptoms become much worse before they get better. It is not a progressive or fatal disease, but it may linger one or more years. The symptoms often become disabling before improving. The vast majority however do recuperate in time.
Common symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome would include recent onset of debilitating fatigue. This fatigue is again not a result of over exertion and is unrelieved by
rest. Persistent low grade fever is also very common. Muscle soreness or weakness, sleep disorders, either over sleeping or insomnia, swollen, tender lymph nodes are all common symptoms. A reoccurring sore throat and headaches also occur. Long-lasting malaise following physical exertion is another common side effect of chronic fatigue syndrome.
The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown. Researcher have threes and are investigating a variety of possibilities. Some believe that CFS is due to a combination
of viruses, allergies, and hormonal imbalances. Studies also suggest that it could be due to a dysfunction of the immune system. However current theory holds that CFS may develop when an opportunistic virus or other agent invades the body at a time when the immune system is already suppressed. Factors that could contribute to this would be physical, emotional, or environmental stress, or a combination of the three. Some people are skeptical about chronic fatigue syndrome however. Some believe that CFS is a
psychological disorder rather than a physical one. Research shows though that CFS suffers have disturbances in immunological functioning that make their bodies able to either eradicate invading viruses or to prevent reactivation of viruses previously dormant in their
systems.
Treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome is restricted to relief symptoms. Because the cause of CFS is unknown, it is very difficult to treat. There are a number of conventional and alternative therapies that can help through the course of the disease. Maintaining general good health while avoiding situations that are physically or
psychologically stressful and to balance rest and onvigorous exercise is a good beginning.
The flu-like symptoms can be temporarily alleviated with a variety of medicines. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or aspirin can counteract a low grade fervor,
headaches, and joint or muscle soreness. Low doses of antidepressants have improved patients quality of sleep.
Since no one knows what causes chronic fatigue syndrome, there is nothing anyone can do to prevent it from occurring. However, people may be able to avoid any
worsening of symptoms by strengthening the immune system with vitamins, a proper diet, mild exercise, avoiding environmental toxins, and keeping any allergy problems under
control.
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