Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Natural Remedies

Chronic fatigue syndrome, (CFS), or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a chronic and debilitating disorder known for symptoms of chronic exhaustion that does not improve when you by resting or sleeping and is often worsened by even slight mental or physical activity. Sufferers often also experience poor concentration, short term memory problems, joint pain aching muscles and poor sleep patterns. The cause or causes of CFS are not currently known and there are no identifying tests available at this time. There is evidence that CFS affects all racial and ethnic groups and both sexes. Adolescents can have CFS, but few studies of adolescents have been published.

CFS is not Contagious

CFS is not a contagious disease. Studies designed specifically to test this theory have all proven that CFS cannot be passed from person to person. CFS has none of the typical characteristics associated with contagious diseases, nor does it show up in environmental cluster areas as contagious diseases tend to, as in the case of an epidemic. Little is known at this time about the complex causes of CFS.

Recovery Times

Some patients are fortunate and manage to recover enough to go back to work and resume a normal life. Some patients, however, grow increasingly worse. Sufferers often have to endure cycles of pain and relief, with each cycle of pain becoming worse than the previous one. The range of symptoms include; severe fatigue lasting more than six months, insomnia, swollen lymph nodes, mild fever, muscle aches and pains, depression, memory loss, recurring flu-like symptoms.

Pharmacological treatments are aims at alleviating the symptoms of CFS and include medications that can help with sleeping disorders, joint pain and memory and concentration. Sedatives may also be used in some cases though any medications used to treat CFS may also worsen some of the symptoms due to side effects, so natural supplements may be a better option for many patients.

Helping CFS Naturally.

Exercise is very important, though a moderate program that does not lead to exhaustion is the best way to lessen symptoms and maximize energy. The amount of exercise will vary with the individual, so each person must find the amount of exercise that helps, rather than worsens, the situation. Stress should be avoided. It tends to exacerbate symptoms.

There are also nutritional supplements, which may help to relieve some of the symptoms. The nutritional supplements Potassium-magnesium aspartate, magnesium carnitite may be of help at relieving some of the symptoms.

Herbs that may help include, Golden Seal (though this should not be taken for more than six consecutive weeks and then with a six-month break between uses), Echinacea and garlic will help to boost your immune system. Valerian and Kava kava will help with insomnia. Ginseng and nettle can help you to build up energy and stimulate the metabolism. Alfalfa or wheat grass supplements can also supply many minerals and essential nutrients to help energize the body and boost the immune system.