Alternative medicine is developing into an attractive treatment option. For the longest time now, conventional treatments have not guaranteed absolute success, or even any reasonable measure of success. So as a result, more and more people are trying complementary and alternative treatments, and having some measure of success.
Here are some of the most common complementary and alternative treatments used in relieving patients from the symptoms of CFS.

Ginseng
In Asia, ginseng is a popular herbal treatment for fatigue as well as in increasing energy which is basically what patients of CFS need. It turns out, the claims around this ancient energy booster herb hold water even when tested through contemporary research. Based on the study conducted by the University of Iowa, ginseng is among the more reliable and effective herbs for CFS. An independent study conducted in California further proved that ginseng is a powerful herb for treating CFS.

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NADH)
In a pioneering study conducted among chronic fatigue patients, it was proven that Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, more commonly known as NADH, helps in providing extra energy for CFS patients.

Carnitine
Carnitine, a substance found in almost all living cells, has the main function of transporting fatty acids to the powerhouse or the mitochondria of cells. This substance, in a way, is instrumental in the production of cellular energy. Carnitine supplements are helpful to CFS patients since it is found out that among these people, Carnitine levels are very low which is linked to some types of pain, muscle fatigue and decreased tolerance to physical exertion. Supplementation, therefore, can help fix low Carnitine levels.

Carnitine supplements, in general, work well with patients of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. However high dosage of these supplements may lead to side effects such as diarrhea, rashes, increased appetite and body odor.

Coenzyme Q10 or Co Q10
This is another compound that is found in the energy-producing organelle of the cells- the mitochondria. It is known to play roles in the production of ATP, a chemical compound which produces energy used during muscle contraction.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA is a type of hormone that is released by the adrenal glands. Small quantities of DHEA are also found in the testes and the ovaries where it is converted into testosterone and estrogen. This hormone plays a great deal in the regulation of sleep, moods and memory. Among patients of chronic fatigue syndrome, this hormone is found in abnormally lower levels. Supplements are therefore needed to normalize these levels. However there are downsides to using DHEA supplements.

Since this hormone is converted into testosterone and estrogen, conditions that are controlled by these hormones may be affected. It is therefore very important that DHEA supplements are used only with doctor’s prescription and supervision.

The substances discussed above are potentially helpful in relieving the symptoms of CFS, especially the fatigue factor. However, it should be remembered that although these come from natural sources, the “natural” factor does not guarantee that the substance is safe. These substances can potentially interfere with other medications and may pose serious danger to the health of individuals who are taking them without sufficient professional assistance.

Work with your doctor, or specialist in trying these remedies.

Other options are truly safe. Have you tried acupuncture. I did only once and did not enjoy it. But one session is hardly a fair test. It does work for a lot of people.

Other safe therapies work on keeping your stress levels down. These include breathing therapy, relaxation therapies, movement therapies.

It’s important that you research the many differing options. I know, you are too tired to do that. So have someone do it for you. The benefit you may derive from trying some of these therapies is immeasurable.

So, get it done!

Fred Farah

More information about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome at Understanding Chronic Fatigue Blog
http://www.understandingchronicfatigue.com

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, otherwise known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, is a disorder that literally cripples you with extreme fatigue that lasts many months and even years. It usually comes as a package of symptoms that range from muscle and joint pains to the inability to perform even the slightest activity.

CFS, or chronic fatigue syndrome, is diagnosed by comparing the symptoms of the sick person against two groups of symptoms which commonly show up among CFS patients.

Obviously, the first sign that your doctor will look for is the persistent fatigue that is unrelated to any other condition and results in utter exhaustion. Tolerance to fatigue among CFS patients is very low, so they get severely exhausted from even the slightest tasks. In fact, it is not uncommon for CFS patients to move from one room in their home to another, and end up feeling totally drained.

Most CFS sufferers will get sick for a few days to several weeks, just from performing minor activities. Chronic fatigue is often mistaken for the flu, as the flu-like symptoms are closely related to CFS.

The second part of the CFS diagnosis is the presence of four or more of any of the following symptoms:

- myalgia or muscle pains,

- arthralgia or joint pains in parts of the body,

- severe head aches,

- persistent sore throat which recurs,

- tenderness of the cervical and axillary lymph nodes,

- impaired short-term memory and ability to concentrate,

There’s an endless number of other symptoms that healthcare professionals look for. They include bloating, abdominal pain, dizziness and nausea. And how about chronic cough, chest pains, shortness of breath, dryness of the mouth and eyes.

Weight loss is understandable as patients don’t even feel like eating, but what a horrible way to diet.

There is often numerous psychological problems  such as depression, anxiety, irritability and panic attacks, diarrhea, alcohol intolerance.

Please realize that all these symptoms can be caused by other ailments, so diagnosis is made only after all conditions that are known to produce these symptoms are ruled out. Unfortunately, health care professionals have difficulty in diagnosing chronic fatigue due to the frequency of similar symptoms from other causes.

Apart from the fact that fatigue is a common result of many diseases, it is also a very common sign of most chronic conditions. CFS also presents no symptoms that are visible and obvious enough for easy identification.

To make diagnosis still more difficult, there are not even any diagnostic or laboratory tests that can help in establishing the presence of CFS. Patients also display varying symptoms and the level of severity that just add to the complexity of diagnosis.

In effect, probably the most important symptom remains the severity of the fatigue, along with the length of time it has endured. After 6 months or longer, it is usually classified as chronic fatigue syndrome.

In addition, through elimination of multiple symptoms being from other factors, most doctors can arrive at a diagnosis:

1. Most doctors look for symptoms of hypothyroidism, a malfunction of the thyroid producing lower levels of thyroid hormones. Other notable conditions that may exhibit symptoms similar to CFS are lupus, Lyme disease, multiple sclerosis, bipolar disorder, mononucleosis or kissing disease, depression and diabetes.

2. Believe it or not, the usage of certain medications can result in serious fatigue. There actually are some medications, drugs and substances that can cause physical exhaustion.

3. Recurrence of previous diseases, or illnesses that can produce extreme exhaustion. Cancer is a prime example.

4. Substance abuse, such as excessive alcohol consumption, especially if taken with illegal drugs.

5. Obesity is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 45. I know people like this, and they have expressed often being lethargic, or even “dead tired”.  Understandable, just from the strain of the body carrying so much dead weight.

So there you have it. How is Chronic Fatigue Diagnosed? Now you know. It may take a long time for a definitive diagnosis however, and that is due to the numerous conditions that need to be eliminated to pin down the true cause of the chronic fatigue.

Fred Farah

Diet for Weight Loss Blog
http://www/dietforweightlossblog.com

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Do you have trouble with several other symptoms, such as sore throat, muscle and joint aches, short-term memory loss and severe headache? Well, then that pretty well confirms it, you are stuck with CFS, chronic fatigue syndrome.

Doctors have not yet discovered the exact cause of CFS, but the doctors believe that a number of factors help trigger this debilitating disorder. Immune deficiency is on top of this list.

The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are also classic symptoms of viral infections such as flu. Even viral infections have no known cure yet, just as there is also no known cure for CFS. However, there are many ways to treat the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and help alleviate the discomfort and illnesses. Some treatments may not work for you, but don’t despair, you’ll find some that do work.

Since CFS is most likely caused by viral infections, it is quite important to keep the immune system strong. Herbal remedies are becoming more popular as more people discover the wondrous effects of natural herbs in promoting health and fighting different types of viruses.

For combating chronic fatigue syndrome, the following herbal treatments are recommended.

Ginkgo Biloba – This herb is known to improve circulation and brain function. Taking ginkgo biloba can help with memory and cognitive impairments that is one of the symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Korean Ginseng – has been long used in the orient to boost energy (and sometimes as an aphrodisiac), Ginseng also strengthens the immune system and fights viral infections. It even helps alleviate the harmful effects of stress.

Just use Korean Ginseng with caution, though, because this herb is quite powerful. If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, do not use ginseng. Consult an herbalist, in addition to your doctor, if you are sensitive to the effects of caffeine and similar stimulants.

Echinacea – This powerful herb prevents pathogens such as bacteria and viruses from entering the body and causing several disorders. It basically protects the cells from infections. Recommended dosage is to take about fifteen to twenty drops in liquid form for two days, 3 times a day. This is approximately 300 – 325 mg taken thrice daily. Again, ask the herbalist about it.

Astragalus – One of the most effective herbs to strengthen the immune system, astragalus encourages the production of white blood cells that help fight off and get rid of pathogens that have entered the body.

Astragalus is effective in treating flu and head colds but should not be administered if the individual is also suffering from a fever. Recommened dosage of Astragalus is 150-250 mg taken three to four times daily.

Licorice root –This herb is known primarily for its efficacy in relieving cough and as an expectorant. But licorice is also effective in purging out toxins from the body. Licorice root also supports the endocrine system. However, it is not advisable to take this herb for more than seven days in a row. If you have high blood pressure, do not take licorice root at all. If you plan on using licorice for extended periods, make sure you also increase your intake of foods rich in potassium.

It’s important to use proper dosage when using these herbal remedies. Otherwise, you won’t achieve the best effects. Remember to consult a doctor and a herbalist. This is vitally important, as they will help you determine which herbs work best for you case. The correct dosage you should take will also be decided by them.

It’s quite likely you’ve never heard of most of these herbs and tonics. What may help you the most is your willingness to try the suggested remedies until you find the ones that work for you.

Fred Farah

Successfully Overcome Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Using Natural Medicine at http://fredfarah.com/pro/chronicfatigue.htm

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