Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), is characterized by incapacitating fatigue. The patient's
symptoms may come and go, but are severely debilitating and may last for months or years.
While more commonly found in professionals in the 20-30 year old range, thus the nickname
"yuppie flu", the syndrome affects people of all ages, occupations, and income levels.
More women, especially those younger than 45, are diagnosed with CFS than men or children.
The cause of CFS is unknown. Originally, it was attributed to the Epstein-Barr virus, but
of late, that theory has been dismissed on the basis of serological and epidemiological
observations. Other viruses have been investigated, including cytomegalovirus, herpes
simplex types 1 and 2, human herpes virus 6, Inoue-Melnick virus, human adenovirus 2,
measles, and a retrovirus somewhat resembling human T-cell lymphotropic virus type II.
Another theory on the cause is that some symptoms may result from an overactive immune
system. Genetic predisposition, age, hormal balance, neuropsychiatric factors, sex,
previous illness, environment, and stress appear to have a role in the syndrome. Allergies,
food intolerances, drug reactions, yeast infections, and psychological problems have all been
investigated as possible causes.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome causes few
complications, but its debilitating nature takes a toll on the patient's sense of well-being.
Most complain of prolonged and overwhelming fatigue, accompanied by sore throat, myalgia,
and cognitive dysfunction. To date, there are no definitive tests to pinpoint CFS.
Diagnostic studies should include tests to rule out other similar clinical conditions.
Helpful Links:Chronic Fatigue Syndrome causes few
complications, but its debilitating nature takes a toll on the patient's sense of well-being.
Most complain of prolonged and overwhelming fatigue, accompanied by sore throat, myalgia,
and cognitive dysfunction. To date, there are no definitive tests to pinpoint CFS.
Diagnostic studies should include tests to rule out other similar clinical conditions.
Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome
Syndrome
hronic Fatigue Syndrome is
a relentless, debilitating exhaustion that affects some 3-6 million Americans, and 90
million worldwide, yearly. This
condition begins with cold and flu symptoms that just keep hanging on, followed by
profound lethargy that no amount of sleep or rest will help and tiredness that has nothing to
do with any physical exertion. Because the cause of CFS is unknown, there is no cure.
Sore throat and tender lymph nodes are the main symptoms aside from the fatigue.
Others include muscle and joint pain, headaches, depression, anxiety, inability to
concentrate, stomach distress, impaired memory, and insomnia. While benzodiazepine drugs
like Xanax and
Valium are often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia, and anti-inflammatory drugs are
given out for the aching muscles and joints, a number of herbs also have a history of
traditional use.
Echinacea and
Astragalus are
traditionally used herbs.
Siberian Ginseng and
Licorice Root are
traditional tonic herbs. Licorice contains the compound
glycyrrhizin.
Reishi Mushrooms have a
long history of traditional use. Depression
often accompanies Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
St. John's Wort is
a traditionally used herb.
Another symptom of CFS is insomnia. Valerian Root has traditionally been used at bedtime.
The German Commission E has published a monograph on
Asian (or Red) Ginseng
as a tonic.
Echinacea and
Astragalus are
traditionally used herbs.
Siberian Ginseng and
Licorice Root are
traditional tonic herbs. Licorice contains the compound
glycyrrhizin.
Reishi Mushrooms have a
long history of traditional use. Depression
often accompanies Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
St. John's Wort is
a traditionally used herb.
Another symptom of CFS is insomnia. Valerian Root has traditionally been used at bedtime.
The German Commission E has published a monograph on
Asian (or Red) Ginseng
as a tonic.
Note:
This information is provided for educational purposes only
and is not intended to replace the use of a qualified
health care professional. We strongly recommend the use
of a physician for the diagnostic phase of any treatment.
With an accurate diagnosis in hand, we believe the consumer,
at that point, has a basic, unalienable right to seek out
factual information on all therapeutic approaches, both
orthodox and alternative, and choose those approach(es)
that are right for them. Nonetheless, a "good doctor"
should be considered a requisite starting point.
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