Tips for Living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a debilitating exhaustion that no amount of rest can remedy. There is no cure for this condition as the cause is of yet unknown. If you are going to conquer chronic fatigue syndrome, lifestyle changes are going to be your best treatment.

If you suspect you have chronic fatigue syndrome, please consult your doctor immediately. Some diseases or conditions that are easily cured can mimic the symptoms of CFS. These symptoms include constant tiredness that has nothing to do with overexertion or lack of rest, sore throat, tender lymph nodes, joint pain, impaired memory and concentration, depression, anxiety and/or insomnia.

One of the most important tips for living with chronic fatigue syndrome is that you will have to rest as much as possible, especially during flare-ups. This will take a large amount of understanding from your spouse, family members, employer and yourself. You may need to make some huge changes to your daily schedule if you are living with chronic fatigue syndrome or you will run yourself down very quickly.

When living with chronic fatigue syndrome, you also need to eliminate stress to the greatest degree possible. Stress can weaken your immune system and increase the severity of symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.

You'll also need to exercise lightly when living with chronic fatigue syndrome. Too much exercise can drain you but too little can weaken the heart muscle, which can aggravate symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. It's best to speak to your doctor to find out how much exercise is appropriate for you and your condition.

Avoid junk food while living with chronic fatigue syndrome. Instead, eat whole foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients. Eating several small meals throughout the day can help increase your energy levels while living with chronic fatigue syndrome.

You'll also want to avoid stimulants such as chocolate and caffeine while living with chronic fatigue syndrome, especially during flare-ups. This can be difficult especially for those of us who love our morning cup of coffee. But, remember that overburdening your system with stimulants only depletes your natural energy reserves, further aggravating the chronic fatigue syndrome.

Avoid cigarette smoke, even second hand, while living with chronic fatigue syndrome. Cigarette smoke weakens your immune system and reduces the amount of oxygen that can reach your cells. This is something you definitely don't need to contend with while living with chronic fatigue syndrome.