CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME (CFS)
CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME (CFS)
Are you someone who is,
Tired all the time?
Having,
Muscle and Joint aches without any reason?
Elevated heart rate?
Sleeping problems?
And on and on and on?
Are you one among the many people who are experiencing this and many more such symptoms?
It is even more frustrating when you think about it.
Many people are not yet aware of the condition to which these symptoms belong.
The culprit is none other than our CFS, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as ME, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or SEID, Systematic Exertion Intolerance Disease.
Let’s dive into the specifics and don’t forget to wear your knowledge goggles and gear up for the swim.
(Disclaimer: This is just for entertainment and knowledge purposes and not to be considered equal to a doctor’s consultation)
What is CFS?
CFS, that is chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition characterized by profound fatigue, sleep abnormalities and other symptoms.
It causes lifestyle restrictions, Increased work absence, Social isolation or depression.
What are the symptoms?
- Fatigue
- Problems with memory or concentration
- Sore throat
- Headaches
- Enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or armpits
- Unexplained muscle or joint pain
- Dizziness that worsens with moving from lying down or sitting to standing (Orthostatic intolerance)
- Unrefreshing sleep
- Extreme exhaustion after physical or mental exercise
- Irregular heartbeats
- Chills and Night sweats
- Shortness of breath
- Worsening of the condition due to physical/mental activity (Post Exertion Malaise – PEM) (for 24 hrs or more)
- Sleep disorders or chronic insomnia
How long will it affect us?
CFS is said to last for a minimum of four to six months or more. In some cases, the symptoms are harsh in the first few months and stabilize over the years. It can also have a waxing and waning pattern of show symptoms, where for some months the effects can be severe whereas for some months the effects might fade, and the cycle continues (These are called setbacks or relapses). It is a long-term condition that might even last for a lifetime for some.
Whom does it affect?
Women are more likely to get affected by CFS than men. People between the age of 30-60 are also susceptible to the CFS. Children are less likely to get affected by CFS. Covid 19 has resulted in a large population of people developing CFS.
What is the trigger?
CFS might be triggered by
- Viral infections (like covid 19 or omicron)
- Immune system problems
- Hormonal imbalance
- Physical or emotional trauma
- Age
- Gender
- Genetic factors
Some conditions with symptoms that resemble those of CFS include:
- mononucleosis
- Lyme disease
- multiple sclerosis
- lupus (SLE)
- hypothyroidism
- fibromyalgia
- major depressive disorder
- severe obesity
- sleep disorders
Any cure or precautions?
Making some lifestyle changes may help reduce your symptoms.
Limiting or eliminating your caffeine intake can help you sleep better and ease your insomnia. You should limit or avoid nicotine and alcohol too.
Try to avoid napping during the day if it’s hurting your ability to sleep at night.
Create a sleep routine. Go to bed at the same time every night and aim to wake up around the same time every day.
There are no specific medications to entirely cure CFS, but every symptom of CFS must be dealt with individually. Therapy for depression, light exercises to keep the body active, painkillers for headaches, etc for a short-term basis.
Have a regular healthy diet and avoid any junk or salty or sugary foods that might slow you down further. Consider taking supplements of vitamins such as Vitamin B12, Vitamin C and Magnesium.
Make sure you don’t exert yourself too much and make some changes to your work or daily activities pattern.
Do consult a doctor for medical advice before starting any routine or food pattern.
CFS is a frustrating condition that might completely crush an individual’s self-esteem and pull them down further both physically and emotionally. It is important that we stay optimistic and try to take it one step at a time.
Don’t try to compare yourself to others. Every person has varying recovery time and body conditions.
Don’t isolate yourself and surround yourself with loved ones who will help you through the journey. It is essential to stay optimistic and adapt yourself to the new routine.
Don’t worry friends. This is just another hurdle that you would cross successfully. Just stay strong!
I just wanted to write this as I am one among the many who is affected by CFS for the past 1 year. It is difficult and depressing, but I am willing to stay strong during this rough patch and I believe you can too.
~MM
Reference: https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-fatigue-syndrome
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-fatigue-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20360490
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