The complex condition known as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).
Extreme exhaustion is the result, and it lasts for at least six months. While relaxation doesn’t completely alleviate symptoms, physical or mental activity makes them worse.
Despite numerous suggestions, the cause of ME/CFS is unknown. Experts think a number of things could combine to cause it.
To confirm a diagnosis, there isn’t a single test. A range of medical tests could be necessary to rule out other conditions that present with symptoms similar to yours. The goal of the condition’s treatment is to reduce symptoms.
Symptoms
The intensity of ME/CFS symptoms might change day to day and can differ from person to person. Symptoms that may accompany weariness include:
- extreme tiredness following mental or physical exertion.
- issues related to thinking or memory.
- lightheadedness that gets worse when you stand up after sitting or resting down.
- joint or muscle soreness.
- dulling slumber.
Some sufferers of this illness report having headaches, sore throats, and sensitive lymph nodes under their arms or in their necks. Additionally, those who have the illness may have increased sensitivity to light, sound, odours, food, and medications.
Causes
It is yet unknown what causes myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). A number of variables could be at play, such as:
Inherited traits. Since ME/CFS seems to run in some families, some people may be predisposed to the illness from birth.
Diseases. Some people recover from a bacterial or viral illness before developing symptoms of ME/CFS.
Either mental or physical trauma. Some claim that just before their symptoms started, they underwent surgery, sustained an injury, or underwent a large amount of emotional stress.
Issues with the use of energy. The body’s fuel, mainly fats and sugars, can be difficult for certain ME/CFS patients to turn into energy.
Risk elements
The following variables could raise your risk of developing ME/CFS:
Years old. Although ME/CFS can strike anyone at any age, young to middle-aged people are the most frequently affected.
Gender. Compared to men, women receive ME/CFS diagnoses far more frequently; yet, it’s possible that women are just more likely to tell doctors about their symptoms.
Further health issues. ME/CFS may be more common in people with a history of other complicated medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.
How can one treat chronic fatigue syndrome?
Your healthcare practitioner decides how to treat you based on:
- Your medical history and general state of health
- The severity of the illness
- Your ability to tolerate particular medications, treatments, or procedures
- Anticipations on the progression of the illness
- Your choice or opinion
Treatment options could be:
- medication, such as antidepressants and corticosteroids, among others
- aerobic exercise at a low level (avoid moderate to high intensity physical activity)
- natural remedies and dietary supplements
- Psychoanalysis as well as encouraging guidance
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