Like it is with so many unusual sicknesses and health problems, the language for the symptoms is very unique.  So to help you better understand this maladie you may be suffering from, here are the most common FAQ, Frequently Asked Questions.

 
– What’s the real difference between normal fatigue and Chronic Fatigue?

There is nothing much for the first few days. Normal fatigue is the feeling of exhaustion which is usually caused by physical exertion, mental stress and sickness.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, is represented on the other hand, by a group of conditions that may lead to various other symptoms such as decreased mental acuity. Flu-like symptoms and excessive fatigue are also traditional.

CFS is a type that will not afford its sufferers with enough energy to move freely. The difference between the two is demonstrated once full-blown symptoms occur and when they last for a very long time, typically at least 6 months. It takes that long to be classified as chronic faigue.

– What are the symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

There are various symptoms of CFS and in order to determine the presence of this condition, a patient must possess at least four of the following: post-exertional malaise which persists for more than 24 hours, muscle pains, joint pain, sleep difficulties or sleep that does not lend energy to the individual, frequent severe headaches, sore throat that is persistent and recurring, decreased mental clarity, poor memory and impaired concentration, and tenderness of the lymph nodes that are located in the neck and armpit.

– What are the causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

While the exact causes of CFS are not yet identified, there are strong indications that cause can be divided into three types:

1- immune system-related,

2- viral and non-viral pathogens and

3- stress-related

Then too are also indications that CFS is triggered by the combination of these causes. For some people, the major beginning of the condition is after contracting an infection. And for others, CFS begins after an extensive period of stress.

Some patients have had their immune system damaged (weakened) which made it easier for the symptoms to develop and worsen. Current studies are trying to determine if genetics, emotional distress and immunological conditions are fully related with the disorder.

– Is there a cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Not yet, but cures for CFS are still being wored on. So for now, treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome is concentrating on alleviating the symptoms.

– What are the treatment options?

There are a few types of treatment options available for patients of CFS. They are roughly divided into four categories: medical treatments, alternative treatments, supportive treatments and lifestyle alterations.

Under medical treatments you’ll find medications and drugs that are prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as physical pain, headaches and psychological stress caused by CFS. These include pain relievers, NSAIDs or Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, Anxiolyticagents, Autonomic nervous system stimulants and antidepressants. That was a mouthful in itself, so no wonder we need a FAQ.

Natural, herbal and hormone supplements are commonly used under alternative medicine. Relaxation techniques and behavioral techniques are used in supportive treatments while lifestyle alterations basically help patients change some aspects of their lives to establish relief from debilitating symptoms.

– How is CFS diagnosed?

Since there are no lab tests, diagnostic and medical examinations that are used in the diagnosis of CFS, health care providers use the principle of exclusion in determining the presence of the condition. Through this method, all diseases, illnesses and conditions that are known to have symptoms similar TO CFS are ruled out. Diagnosis is only made once the symptoms of the patients match with the case definition.  

– Where can I get help?

Of course, your first action should be to see your doctor regularly. He should provide other specialists for you. Get help from health care providers who are knowledgeable in diagnosing and treating CFS such as herbalists, etc. Support groups for patients of CFS are also available.

There is also assistance from ebooks. This is the newest product and is becoming a best seller. The author says:

What Doctors Don’t Tell You Because They Don’t Know. In this Course you’re Provided With Hard Earned, Practical Knowledge For Successfully Overcoming Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Using Natural Medicine.
Fred Farah

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

For even more helpful information on chronic fatigue,
visit the Understanding Chronic Fatigue blog at
http://www.understandingchronicfatigue.com

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