Do you feel exhausted all the time? Are you so worn out that even the simplest daily tasks, like dressing or eating, seems to require more energy than you can muster? Does the sense of exhaustion persist even after resting or sleeping?
You may be suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Experts believe that at least one million people in the United States suffer from it, but less than 20% report it. It tends to affect women more than men, and is more common among people in their 40’s to 60’s. However, it can affect people of all genders, ages and ethnic groups. Early detection is crucial, so here are tips on how to identify the problem, and cope with it.
1. What is chronic fatigue syndrome?
Chronic fatigue syndrome is sometimes called chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS). It is also sometimes called myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).
Experts are still figuring out the causes of chronic fatigue syndrome, but most believe that it an immune system disorder. It can sometimes be triggered by a viral infection (like a cold or stomach flu), or a bout with the Epstein-Barr virus or mononucleosis (sometimes called ‘mono’). There are also cases of people contracting chronic fatigue syndrome after a great emotional upset, such as loss of a loved one, or major surgery. Doctors believe that’s because depression or emotional stress can compromise our immune system and make us more vulnerable to viral attack.
2. How do I know if I have chronic fatigue syndrome?
At first chronic fatigue syndrome seems like a regular flu. You’re tired for more than a day, and this doesn’t go away after resting or sleeping. Your muscles and joints hurt, even if they’re not swollen or red. You have headaches, which are more intense than usual. Your lymph nodes (found in your neck and armpit) are tender. You have a sore throat, and may experience chills and low-grade fever.
However, unlike the flu, chronic fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome may be accompanied by vision problems. You may be more sensitive to light, or have blurred eyesight. You may also feel more emotional and anxious; some people report panic attacks and mood swings. You may develop allergies to food and medication, or become more sensitive to smells and sounds. You may also experience balance problems, dizziness and fainting spells, and difficulty sitting or standing.
The symptoms can be very different from person to person. It can happen suddenly, or worsen over time. Plus, the feeling may be constant or intermittent (comes and goes). Whatever the case, it’s important to see a doctor in order to diagnose and treat the condition so it doesn’t affect your quality of life.
Experts also say it’s important to seek more than one medical opinion. It can be hard to diagnose chronic fatigue syndrome since it’s common for people to experience extreme fatigue when they go through medical treatments (such as chemotherapy). You can also become more prone to fatigue when you are experiencing hormonal changes (like during menopause). That’s why doctors need to rule out other conditions. Most of them wait until the extreme fatigue has persisted over 6 months before diagnosing CFS.
3. How do I cope with chronic fatigue syndrome?
There is no magic pill that can cure chronic fatigue syndrome. However, there are ways to manage your condition.
Some people recommend keeping a daily diary to help you figure out what triggers your exhaustion. For one week, write down what you do and how that effects your energy levels. Bring this diary to an occupational therapist, who can help you strengthen your muscles through special exercises, and also recommend changes in your routine to minimize unnecessary exertion. You may also want to talk to family members or co-workers about sharing chores and responsibilities.
You also need to start thinking in terms of your daily ‘energy bank.’ Look at your daily diary and compare how much energy you think you had that day, and how much energy you used. Did you overestimate what you could do? Did you spend your energy on what really mattered? Also look at how you may have expended energy on emotional outbursts or negative thinking—these activities may not be physical, but they use up time and your inner resources.
The secret then is to ‘build up your energy bank’ through occupational therapy, proper diet, and rest and then to ‘control your energy costs’ by choosing what to do and what to think about.
4. What medications can I take?
Your doctor can prescribe medications to help you deal with the symptoms of your condition. For example, pain relievers can help control the effects of headaches, muscle and joint pain. Prescription medication like doxepin and amitrityline can help with insomnia. However, most people who suffer from CFS also get alternative treatments like massage or acupuncture. Talk to your doctor about what can help your CFS and seek his advice about any alternative treatments. You may also want to join a CFS support group.