Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatable?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) refers to the persistent, extreme tiredness that is not caused by any underlying medical conditions, and affects the normal day-to-day activities. The fatigue in this case may continue for more than six months and may be accompanied by other symptoms, like joint pain. In many cases, the fatigue may continue for years together, while in others, the condition may improve in a year or two. Since most of the people who have this condition do not understand and accept it, they fail to get enough support for treating the same. Although there is no cure for CFS, understanding the disorder will be helpful in alleviating the symptoms.

The actual cause of this disorder is not known. There are several theories, but most of them do not have supporting evidence. The characteristic symptom of this condition is the extreme weakness and exhaustion that persists for months together and does not seem to improve with rest. Any amount of rest seems to be inadequate in this case. This tiredness starts to affect the normal activities after a period of time. Some other common symptoms include forgetfulness, memory loss, sore throat, fever, muscle and joint pain, feeling tired after physical activity, and feeling tired even after a good sleep.

The aim of treatment is to make the person feel better and it focuses on the symptoms. Over-the-counter medications for pain relief, joint pain, muscle pain, and headaches may provide relief from the regular worries. Antidepressants may be helpful for the person to improve the mood, and also to get a good sleep. Many supplements are thought to be useful in improving the condition.

Simple changes in lifestyle and home remedies are the best plan for treatment of this condition. Try to keep the demanding schedules for the best part of your day when you feel more energetic. Do not overdo yourself; this may add to the weakness.

Develop good sleeping habits like:

• Develop a routine for sleep and try to follow it every day.
• Try to do something very relaxing before you go to sleep.
• Avoid having alcohol and other stimulants before going to bed.
• Make the room comfortable for sleep with respect to temperature and bedding.
• Mid-morning naps also may be helpful in relaxing. Have short power naps of 20 to 30 minutes that will energize you.