Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Causes and Treatment
Fatigue is a common feeling that most women experience most of the time. This is often due to the many responsibilities and tasks women, whether mothers or not, must take on. Regardless of motherhood status, women are generally active and constantly busy. But what if the fatigue you're feeling isn't temporary? It could indicate a condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome, which we'll discuss in detail in this article.
What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex and chronic condition that is often challenging to diagnose. It manifests when the affected person, usually a woman, experiences continuous fatigue for over six months, with no relief even after rest or vacation.
Causes
To date, there are no clear causes for this syndrome, but doctors suggest some possible reasons and risk factors that have been observed in many individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome. These include:
- Hormonal imbalance.
- Certain Viral Infections.
- Some bacterial infections.
- Immune system dysfunction.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Stress and anxiety.
- Physical or psychological trauma.
- Allergies.
Symptoms
- Severe fatigue that hinders simple daily tasks.
- Feeling tired even after a good night's sleep.
- Insomnia.
- Sleep disturbances, such as frequent waking at night.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Memory weakening.
- Dizziness upon standing.
- Muscle pain.
- Frequent headaches.
- Recurring sore throat.
- Joint pain without swelling or redness.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and underarms.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome is a challenge for doctors due to the similarity of its symptoms with other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, lupus, hypothyroidism, depression, obesity, and chronic insomnia. Therefore, the doctor must confirm that the presented symptoms do not indicate these conditions. Comprehensive blood tests are conducted to rule out infections or deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which can impact both mental and physical activity.
Treatment
Until now, there is no definitive cure for this syndrome, and the treatment is focused on managing the symptoms, as each person experiences different ones. If the cause of the syndrome is related to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, treatment involves supplementing the deficiencies with the nutritional supplements prescribed by the doctor.
Tips for Coping with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Successfully dealing with this syndrome involves scheduling activities to include multiple rest periods throughout the day, focusing on avoiding physical and mental stress.
- Engage in light exercises such as walking and swimming for half an hour three times a week.
- Practice yoga and meditation.
- Go to bed early, avoid screen time before bedtime, engage in mind-clearing activities, and avoid strenuous activities before sleep, such as praying or reading.
- Get a relaxing massage session every two weeks.
- Pay attention to self-care, and spend quality time with family, husband, and friends.
- Stop smoking in all its forms.
- Cut down on daily caffeine intake.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Drink enough water.
- Take care of mental health, as depression is one of the factors contributing to this syndrome. If you experience any symptoms of depression, seek advice from mental health professionals.
These lifestyle adjustments can contribute to better management of chronic fatigue syndrome, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
