Chronic Fatigue: Tired All the Time

Chronic fatigue, also referred to as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), is a seriously debilitating condition. This is a complicated illness in which persons are unable to perform actively at the level they were able to play prior to developing CFS. The diagnosis is difficult as extreme fatigue can be caused by a variety of illnesses which must be excluded before CFS can be determined. Another complicating factor is that many with chronic fatigue also have other serious medical conditions like thyroid disease or diabetes.

Symptoms

Consistent fatigue is of course, the most prominent feature of CFS. Other symptoms do arise with the condition as well. The signs are varied and a person generally experiences several but not all of them. They are weakness, muscular pain, memory issues, painful lymph nodes, sore throat and head aches. It should also be noted that the fatigue and other symptoms are not improved by sleep.

Similar Illnesses

Doctors should rule out the following illnesses confirming chronic fatigue syndrome: fibronyalsia, chronic mononucleosis, multiple chemical sensitivities, myalgic sneep homyelitis and neurastheaia. Other illnesses that may mimic chronic fatigue are depression, sleep apnea, narcolepsy, schizophrenia, hormone disorders and bipolar disorder.

Risk Factors

While both genders can suffer from CFS, the "Centers for Disease Control" report that women are four times more likely to suffer from the condition then men. The CDC also states chronic fatigue cases are most frequent in persons in their forties and fifties. Children can develop CFS but it is much less common than in adults.

Treatment

Treatment of chronic fatigue centers of achieving relief from its symptoms as there is not a cure. Medication is often prescribed along with non-drugs therapies. Drugs often prescribed include pain medications and antidepressants. Non-drug therapies include stress reduction exercises, nutrition supplements and moderate stretching and exercise. Activity must be closely monitored as over activity can worsen chronic fatigue.

Self-care

Those with CFS should seek medical treatment for their condition. In addition to doctor provided medications and therapies there are measures patients can take to help themselves. A person with chronic fatigue need to constantly adjust her activity to a level according to the amount of energy she has at a particular time. She should not push herself to engage in strenuous activity as long as she suffers from CFS. She should also practice relaxation methods such as breathing exercises, stretching and guided imagery to find relief.