Chronic fatigue syndrome, symptoms and treatment of the disease of modern society at home

Almost every inhabitant of modern megacities knows about chronic fatigue (CFS). Due to poor nutrition, poor health, and non-compliance with work and leisure schedules, the disease is increasingly manifesting itself. Fatigue can develop at any age, but according to statistics, women are more likely to suffer from this type of disorder than men.

Chronic fatigue syndrome: symptoms and treatment at home is a simple process, but requires immediate action. At the first sign, you can overcome the disease using folk remedies. It is important to treat the issue thoroughly.

What is chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

Constant stress, a sedentary lifestyle, frequent sitting at the computer, lack of sleep, and lack of proper rest lead to loss of health and decreased vital energy. This is a direct road to a state where the energy level becomes constantly low. We begin to feel tired and find it difficult to do any work. Depression often sets in and other psychological problems appear. This is how we end up with chronic fatigue syndrome and painful symptoms arise.

The problem is that we get used to this condition, do nothing, don’t go to the doctor, don’t carry out treatment, considering this the norm of a modern person.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is both physical and mental fatigue, leading to nervous exhaustion and all kinds of physical illnesses.

Therefore, as soon as you notice the first signs of constant fatigue, do not delay, but immediately take action and carry out treatment. And I’ll tell you what you need to do today.

Chronic fatigue syndrome occurs in both women and men.

Today women take on a lot. You have to do household chores, work a lot in the office, in production. Most women have such a bad habit as constantly thinking about current problems at moments when they need to rest. When a woman rests or goes to bed, she continues to think about everything in great detail, afraid of missing something. This is often accompanied by all sorts of emotions. There is no question of proper rest.

It's also hard for men today.

To earn money and provide for your family you have to work hard, but have little rest. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that many men relieve tension with alcohol. Alcohol, while harmful, does not provide real rest.

Now there is such nonsense as chronic fatigue syndrome in children. If this is not associated with an internal disorder in the body, with any chronic disease, then it mainly arises from constant sitting at the computer, watching TV, from a sedentary lifestyle, due to the lack of fresh air in the apartment. Be sure to keep an eye on your child so that he does not spend too long on the Internet, walk outside, or go to bed on time. If you miss this moment, big problems and difficult treatment will arise in the future.

How to cope with chronic fatigue: tips and reviews

Sophia. I recently read somewhere that chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with disturbances in brain function. And in order to prevent such violations, it is necessary to consume foods rich in omega 3. After this article, I try to eat fish and nuts once a week.

Elizabeth. I am also susceptible to this type of fatigue. For me it is more of a moral plan. Sometimes everything gets boring: monotony, lack of joy in life, etc. Hands down. I don't want anything. I don’t know if it’s fatigue or something else. But I'm trying to please myself with something. I’ll go to the museum or cook some delicious dessert. And you see, life is getting better. And immediately performance increases and fatigue increases like never before.

Causes of constant fatigue

To avoid trouble, you must know the causes of chronic fatigue. In fact, there are many reasons leading to chronic fatigue syndrome. This is hard work without rest, especially when we take on more than our body can handle.

Violation of sleep and rest patterns, late sitting at work, insufficient sleep. Constant stress, an excess of negative emotions, worry about the future and dissatisfaction with what happened. In a word, lack of awareness. In fact, negative thoughts, as well as emotions, take a lot of our strength. If the body is not allowed to recover, it will definitely get sick. The overall energy will decrease, so you are constantly tired and lazy.

Inability to rest properly. Instead of proper rest and relaxation, imaginary and incorrect rest: alcohol, overeating, sitting at the computer and TV.

We can conclude that working is harmful to health. But in fact, it is not work that is harmful to a person, but excessive activity, accompanied by worries about completed tasks, racing for achievements, without compensation with proper and complete rest.

The following may also be at risk:

• people living in the city;
• constantly staying in stuffy rooms;
• those who lead a sedentary lifestyle;
• having a busy work schedule;
• careerists who think only about work;
• those who do not know how to rest properly;
• alcohol abusers;
• those who for some reason have low energy levels.

Definition

Females are more susceptible to developing chronic fatigue syndrome.
The official definition of chronic fatigue syndrome is something like this: chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disease characterized by excessive physical and mental fatigue, lasting at least 6 months, not relieved by rest or sleep, accompanied by numerous joint, muscle, infectious and neuropsychological symptoms. Thus, it becomes clear that fatigue can be considered a disease only if it exists for at least six months and in combination with other symptoms.

The first mention of chronic fatigue syndrome dates back to the 30s of the twentieth century, but until 1988 the wording was different. Synonyms for CFS are the following: benign myalgic encephalomyelitis, chronic mononucleosis, myalgic encephalopathy, post-viral fatigue syndrome. This is exactly what this disease was called throughout the 20th century. Such different formulations of the same condition were associated with the search for the immediate causes of CFS. Since the only cause was never established, scientists decided to associate the name with the main symptom. So, in 1988, the Americans proposed the term “chronic fatigue syndrome,” and since 1994 the name has become international.

How to understand that chronic fatigue has appeared. Symptoms and signs

As soon as the level of internal energy decreases, internal tension accumulates, a person feels the first signs of impending trouble.

Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome begin to appear.

The nervous system malfunctions, which is expressed by unstable mental functioning. A person begins to get irritated over trifles, and frequent outbursts of uncontrollable emotions occur. For example, women cry or throw tantrums. Men try to compensate for fatigue with alcohol, thereby aggravating the situation. Blues, depression, panic attacks, and a constant pessimistic mood often occur. A person simply ceases to control negative thoughts, and they, having taken possession of him, lead to problems on the physical plane.

All systems inside the body go astray. First, diseases such as vegetative-vascular dystonia occur, and then more serious diseases.

Sleep is disturbed. Frequent headaches occur, appetite is disrupted, and blood pressure changes occur. A person becomes lethargic, apathetic, too lazy.

The most important thing is not to miss the first symptoms of the disease, when it seems to us that bad mood and apathy are simply associated with ordinary fatigue at work, it seems that nothing needs to be done. But then the fatigue will become chronic, and it will be much more difficult to cope with it. Therefore, you need to sound the alarm immediately.

Now I will list the obvious signs of chronic fatigue. If you notice at least one of them, you need to immediately take action and begin treatment.

1. Weakness;
2. lethargy;
3. fatigue;
4. prostration;
5. feeling lazy;
6. fatigue.

But the fact is that such signs are common, they are not related to our problem under consideration. We can say that you have chronic fatigue only if the above symptoms

last for a long time, usually for several weeks, you can’t do anything about it, short-term rest no longer helps.

There are also symptoms of chronic fatigue that manifest differently in different people:

• a person ceases to control his emotions, he wants to cry or throw tantrums;
• memory and concentration deteriorate;
• depression sets in, chronic fatigue and depression often appear together;
• causeless irritability;
• constant bad mood.

Secondary manifestations and symptoms of the disease may also include:

• headache;
• insomnia;
• or vice versa, constant drowsiness;
• chills;
• slight increase in temperature;
• inflammation of the lymph nodes;
• resumption of chronic diseases (where it breaks thin);

and other symptoms and signs.

In fact, there are many more symptoms and signs.

The main thing is to understand that if something is wrong with you, you can no longer do work, as before, you are already sick of any activity, that is, the level of internal energy of the body has decreased, then it’s time to take charge of yourself and get rid of chronic fatigue. If you don't do this right away, it will be more difficult and will take more time.

Factors provoking the development of the syndrome

The diagnosis of “chronic fatigue syndrome” appeared relatively recently: back in the 1980s, nothing was known about such a pathology.

But then, with the growth of the industrial sector, the deterioration of the environmental situation throughout the world and social development, factors appeared that put significant pressure on the human nervous system.

Today, experts identify the following main reasons due to which CFS can receive an impetus for development, and in a person’s life there are only drowsiness, fatigue, weakness and apathy:

1. Stress factor . Depression, emotional and mental stress provoke structural changes that occur in the nervous system.
2. Immune factor . Pathology may occur due to damage to the immune system.
3. Genetic factor . The presence of abnormalities in individual genes is also a provocateur of CFS.
4. Viral factor . Herpes virus, cytomegaloviruses, enteroviruses, Epstein-Barr virus create a high risk of developing this pathology.

People at particular risk are those who:

• have recently suffered a serious illness, been injured, or undergone radiation or chemotherapy;
• suffer from allergic, infectious, endocrine diseases of a chronic progressive nature;
• occupy responsible positions;
• live in an area characterized by unfavorable environmental conditions;
• do not eat well, sleep and rest little;
• lead a sedentary lifestyle;
• drink alcohol, smoke.

Do I need to see a doctor?

The mistake of many is that they do not consider constant fatigue syndrome a disease, do not consult a doctor when painful symptoms appear, and do not undergo treatment. They simply forget the main rule. All body systems are interconnected. If a violation occurs in one area, for example, in the psyche, it will certainly be reflected in another area, in the body. If you work a lot, sleep little, and don't rest, you are bound to get sick both mentally and physically.

Which doctor should I contact if I notice symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome?

If your fatigue has already developed into a physical illness, make an appointment with an appropriate specialist, do not start the illness. It often happens that a person has pain in everything a little or it is unclear where it hurts. Or let’s say you have discovered the first signs, symptoms of constant fatigue syndrome, but there are no physical pains yet. Contact a therapist or neurologist. They will listen to your complaints, if necessary, prescribe further examinations and send you to the right specialist.

You may also need to consult an endocrinologist or immunologist.

It’s a good idea to see a psychologist or a psychotherapist. Indeed, often the cause of chronic fatigue is the inability to control oneself, one’s psyche, elementary neglect of proper rest and disruption of sleep patterns.

Mental Fatigue Test by Akiyoshi Kitaoka

As mentioned above, this problem has a viral and neuralgic pathology. Everything is clear with viruses; the body’s immune system spends a lot of energy to fight them, which leads to chronic fatigue. As for nervous exhaustion, it is also a common cause of this illness.

Visual illusions of Akiyoshi Kitaoka

In order to determine chronic fatigue caused by a mental state, you can use Akioshi Kitaoka's tests. This famous Japanese psychology professor developed a method for studying a person’s mental state based on “visual illusions.”

Focus your gaze on one point in the picture:

• If the drawings are motionless, then the mental state is normal. Professor Kitaoka believes that this is only possible in a rested, balanced person
• If, when focusing the gaze, the picture continues to move, then the patient urgently needs rest, both psychological and physical. Adequate sleep is especially recommended for such a person.

The movement of “visual illusions” indicates physical fatigue, a person’s stressed state and a deterioration in his health. Akioshi Kitaoka developed this test to identify mental problems, but it can also be used to identify chronic fatigue syndrome.

IMPORTANT: CFS can be diagnosed using another test, which was developed by Australian scientists from Griffith University. They found several biomarkers (single nucleotide polymorphisms) in the body that were present in 80% of subjects who had symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Now, with the help of simple tests, you can not only identify the presence of such a problem, but also find out the effectiveness of its treatment.

Treatment of chronic fatigue

Treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome in medicine today is carried out using various methods, both medicinally, with the help of drugs, tablets, and with the help of various procedures and recommendations.

Special medications are used to normalize the functioning of the nervous system. Medicines and methods of use vary from person to person; consult your doctor for advice.

Multivitamin complexes are prescribed.

With chronic fatigue syndrome, the body's need for vitamins and minerals increases. B vitamins are especially recommended, as they are responsible for the functioning of the nervous system.

To calm and relieve tension, products based on valerian and motherwort are used.

In special cases of treatment, antidepressants are used, but I would not recommend using them.

You must find reserve sources of recovery within yourself, and not be dependent on pills that are strong on the nervous system.

If you become addicted to them, you will block access to the body’s natural self-healing.

Psychotherapy is recommended. A psychologist will be able to listen to you. It will open your eyes to the fact that your excessive work and exposure to stress will lead to big problems in the future. We will help you understand the importance of maintaining mental and physical health.

Various methods of physiotherapy, treatment with water, contrast showers, and massage are successfully used.

There are also folk remedies for chronic fatigue.

St. John's wort infusion and plantain infusion are used. Sprouted grains, as well as a combination of products such as honey, lemon, and walnuts, improve the body’s energy well.

Don't forget to eat right. It is important to eat foods that give you energy. These are cereals, fruits, vegetables, dairy products. In winter, don't forget about meat. The main thing to remember is that fatty foods, heavy foods, and overeating are not recommended, that is, something that takes away our strength cannot be digested for a long time. Use medicinal chewing.

Chronic fatigue syndrome must be treated comprehensively. Since individually, one or another treatment method may not be beneficial.

Diagnostics

For a long time, CFS existed in medicine in the form of various diagnoses - myalgic encephalopathy, chronic mononucleosis, etc. Since 1992, the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10) has a category G93. It corresponds to post-viral fatigue syndrome.

Specific tests for diagnosing chronic fatigue syndrome have not been developed. Major and minor criteria are used to make a diagnosis. Major ones include: the presence of unexplained fatigue that persists for six months or more, as well as limitation of daily activity in connection with it. Both criteria must be present in the patient. Minor criteria have auxiliary diagnostic value. At least 4 of 8 signs must be present:

• inflammatory lesion of the oropharynx in the form of pharyngitis;
• cognitive impairment with decreased memory and ability to concentrate;
• inflammatory changes in the axillary or cervical lymph nodes, manifested by an increase in their size and pain on palpation;
• muscle pain with stiffness of movement;
• arthralgia, which may not be accompanied by inflammatory changes in the joints in the form of redness of the skin and swelling;
• sleep disturbances, including lack of recuperation during the night;
• headache with variable characteristics;
• fatigue, reaching a feeling of complete exhaustion against the background of mental or physical labor.

Making a diagnosis of CFS requires a comprehensive examination of the patient, since the doctor is forced to exclude other diseases that have similar manifestations.

Differential diagnosis

It is carried out with the following pathologies:

• mental illness such as major depression, bipolar affective disorder, dementia, schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa or bulimia;
• drug addiction or alcoholism, while not only the patient’s current bad habits are assessed, but also those that have been observed over the past two years;
• somatic pathology, since manifestations of chronic fatigue syndrome can be detected in anemia, cancer, chronic viral hepatitis, renal and liver failure, endocrine pathology, disorders of the nervous system, intoxication, etc.;
• severe obesity.

Diagnostic measures

The examination is comprehensive. Since the diagnostic criteria are the patient’s complaints and their nature, the doctor evaluates the functioning of the internal organs and nervous system. To do this, the examination is carried out according to the following algorithm:

1. Collection of existing complaints, as well as medical history. It is important to establish how long the symptoms have been present, possible causes of their appearance, previous infectious diseases, as well as concomitant somatic pathology.
2. Neurological and physical examination aimed at assessing internal organs. An important criterion for chronic fatigue syndrome is muscle soreness upon superficial palpation.
3. Psychological tests assess basic cognitive function and mental status.
4. Clinical and biochemical blood test. In the latter, the level of electrolytes, liver enzymes (AlAT and AST), alkaline phosphatase, glucose level, total protein, etc. is determined. The concentration of thyroid hormones and the presence of rheumatoid factor are assessed.
5. Specific diagnosis of infectious diseases (HIV infection, mononucleosis, cytomegalovirus infection, etc.) using polymerase chain reaction and enzyme immunoassay. Both methods allow not only to determine the presence of pathology, but also the duration of infection.
6. Additional studies of internal organs and brain as indicated. The patient can undergo computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, etc.

To make a diagnosis, special questionnaires must be used: the multidimensional fatigue questionnaire, the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, and the CDC symptom list. These tests allow you to assess the level of general fatigue, quality of life and the severity of existing symptoms. Questionnaires are used during therapy to assess its effectiveness.

Treatment at home

To be honest, modern medicine will not be able to completely help you in treating chronic fatigue syndrome. The thing is that she does not fully understand the connection between the psyche and the body, and does not study the vital energy of the body.

Therefore, it is better if you combine the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome with independent efforts at home.

Be sure to go to the doctor if, due to stress, anxiety, excessive work without rest, your chronic diseases have returned, something bothers you or you are sick.

That is, you will already be treating the consequences of chronic fatigue. But the root of the problem will have to be eliminated yourself, at home, in the comfort of your own home. You need to eliminate the root cause that led you to the disease.

And the main reason for SHS is, of course, exceeding the body’s capabilities, without proper proper rest, and a disregard for one’s body. We must both work and rest. Constant rest will not lead to anything good, and constant work without rest will lead to exhaustion of the body and a decrease in vital energy. So much for chronic fatigue.

Therefore, first of all, you need to normalize your daily routine. Get a good night's sleep and don't stay up too long at night.

It is better to temporarily leave the job that led to problems with the body. Go on vacation, change activities.

But not everyone can afford it. Therefore, you need to try not to overload yourself at work. Don’t forget that the body’s capabilities are not unlimited, that it needs rest.

It will be useful to engage in light sports that do not take energy, but rather give it. For example, walking in the fresh air, swimming, skiing, and cycling are useful.

But most importantly, you need to learn to relax and learn to increase the level of internal energy of the body. We do not know how to rest correctly and often the activity that we call rest, on the contrary, takes away our strength.

Therefore, in the next article I will tell you in more detail how to treat chronic fatigue yourself at home without the help of doctors, how to treat the disease effectively and correctly. How to rest properly, how to increase the level of vital energy in the body so that you will forever forget what chronic fatigue syndrome is.

I repeat, this problem needs to be dealt with comprehensively. Of course, consult a doctor, but only you can give yourself the best help. And this is the only way you will succeed in the fight against chronic fatigue.

Improving performance

• Drinking liters of coffee is not an option. Firstly, this amount of caffeine has a negative effect on the nervous system. And if 1-2 mugs of coffee can invigorate the body, then all subsequent mugs of this drink will have a detrimental effect on well-being
• Secondly, coffee is a diuretic. That is, it has a diuretic effect. Which can lead to dehydration and, as a result, fatigue. Therefore, if you need to improve your performance, you need to drink no more than two cups of coffee a day and ensure access to water in your body
• A drug such as Deanol aceglumate helps improve performance. It can help boost your mood, improve brain function, and improve your well-being during depression. This drug is indicated for memorizing and reproducing large amounts of information, as well as for excessive physical activity.
• Also, Phenotropil has proven itself to be effective in stimulating brain function and improving its blood supply. This drug in tablet form stimulates intracellular metabolism. What helps increase physical and mental performance But you cannot use these medications without consulting a doctor!

Historical reference

The disease received its name after an epidemic in Nevada (USA) in 1984. Dr. Paul Chaney, who practiced in the small town of Incline Village, located on the shores of Lake Tahoe, recorded more than 200 cases of this disease. Patients felt depression, worsening mood, and muscle weakness. They were found to have the Epstein-Barr virus or antibodies to it and to other viruses - “relatives” of the herpes virus. Whether the cause of the disease was a viral infection or something else, for example, a poor environmental situation, remained unclear.

Outbreaks of the disease have been observed before: in Los Angeles in 1934, in Iceland in 1948, in London in 1955, in Florida in 1956. The syndrome is not limited to any geographic or sociodemographic groups. In the United States, about 10 patients per 100 thousand people suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome. In Australia in 1990, the incidence was higher: 37 people per 100 thousand population. Women aged 25 to 45 years are most susceptible to the syndrome.

In 2009, scientists from the United States became the authors of an article that described the effect on the human body of the chronic fatigue syndrome virus that affects mice. A few years later, these data were refuted, since the virus was not detected in the blood of the sick people studied. However, other biologists have recently announced their results. Their conclusion proved the presence of a certain virus in the blood of patients: it appears when the immune system is in a state of constant tension.

In January 2019, a group of British scientists published their research, according to which the chronic fatigue syndrome virus exists, and adolescents are especially susceptible to infection. According to experts, more than two percent of UK teenagers have chronic fatigue syndrome. Characteristic symptoms of this disease are insomnia, fatigue, headaches and frequent cramps.

Diagnosis of CFS as a disorder of the nervous system

The diagnosis is made based on an analysis of the abnormalities observed in the patient. A certain number of criteria that a neurologist calculates indicates a disorder or refutes it.

Since CFS may indicate the development of endocrine, oncological, somatic, infectious or psychiatric diseases, the patient is also examined by an infectious disease specialist, endocrinologist, therapist and rheumatologist.

In addition, blood tests are performed to check for infections, including HIV.

Preventive measures

It is quite possible to prevent the development of CFS. For this purpose it is necessary:

• try to lead an active, healthy lifestyle;
• spend more time outdoors; if you have to spend most of your time indoors, you need to at least ventilate it more often and maintain an optimal level of humidity;
• avoid stressful situations if possible;
• change the environment from time to time to get new sensations;
• to refuse from bad habits;
• Learn to competently plan your work and rest schedule and follow it.

CFS is not fatal. But, since the pathology affects the nervous system, it must be dealt with without delaying it until later, otherwise you may later face even more serious consequences.

Treatment

Drug therapy

After completing the diagnosis, treatment begins. Drugs are prescribed depending on the symptoms and factors that caused the development of the syndrome. It is forbidden to use medications independently, without a doctor’s prescription. The following groups of drugs are used:

1. Immunomodulators (Likopid, Dibazol, Polyoxidonium, Interferon). They influence the patient’s immunity, strengthen it and prevent the development of viral and colds. Prescribed for frequent relapses of diseases.
2. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Naproxen, Ibuprofen, Ketorolac). Used for pain in muscles and joints.
3. Nootropic drugs (Phenibut, Aminolon, Piracetam) and antidepressants (Befol, Imipramine, Toloxatone). Prescribed for prolonged stress and prolonged depression. Also used for unreasonable feelings of fear and nightmares.
4. Antiviral drugs (Kagocel, Arbidol, Tamiflu, Anaferon). Used during the development of a viral infection.
5. Vitamin complexes (Triovit, Univit, Vitrum, Centrum). To improve well-being, strengthen the immune system and correct metabolic processes, drugs from this group are prescribed.

Homeopathic medicines are used to improve well-being:

1. Gelsemium. More often prescribed to older people who are faced with manifestations of the syndrome (feelings of anxiety, severe stress, hand tremors, weakness, fear of crowds).
2. Quininum arsenicosum. The drug is used to treat adult patients who have symptoms such as: insomnia, heaviness in the body, eye sensitivity to light, brain fog.
3. Acidum phosphoricum. The medicine is developed for adolescent patients with the following symptoms: mental instability, headaches, decreased concentration and loss of visual vigilance.

Medicines in the photo

Centrum is a vitamin complex designed to improve well-being and strengthen the immune system Diclofenac is used for pain in muscles and joints Interferon is used for frequent relapses of colds and to strengthen the immune system Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a mandatory component of the treatment of the syndrome. The specialist’s task is to explain to the patient the essence of his problem, that it can be eliminated.

During psychotherapy, psychological blocks that interfere with the patient are removed. These can be fears, worries and other negative emotions that deplete the patient’s health. It is important for the specialist to find out the questions that interest the patient. This way the doctor will be able to better understand the situation and direct therapy in the right direction.

The duration of treatment depends on the patient’s condition and the severity of the problem - from 3 months to 1 year. Consultation alone will not solve all problems, as many people think. A person’s desire to cope with the difficulties that have arisen is of great importance, so the task of treatment is to make the patient believe in himself and his strength.

Normalization of lifestyle

Chronic fatigue syndrome occurs when problems and difficulties accumulate. This is largely due to lifestyle. An important goal of treatment is to eliminate factors that interfere with the patient’s daily life.

Lifestyle restoration occurs in the following areas:

1. Dream. They determine a person’s need for sleep, since the well-known 7–8 hours are advisory in nature, and they are not suitable for everyone. Some people need less time to recuperate, others need 10 hours of sleep or even more. The main condition is that after sleep the person must fully recover.
2. Bad habits. Addictions deplete the body, causing bouts of fatigue. We are talking not only about alcohol and smoking - addiction to coffee or energy drinks has a negative impact on a person’s condition. The temporary increase in strength caused by such stimulants is replaced by decline, the body cannot work to its limits. The patient’s task is to get rid of such addictions.
3. Organization of rest. Knowing how to rest is a whole science; not everyone is able to recover properly: some people like TV, others like a computer. In both cases, the person does not rest, but only wants to think so. Doctors recommend walks in the park. Fresh air and atmosphere allow you to escape from everyday life. An interesting hobby is also a way out of the situation, since a favorite activity brings a lot of positive emotions.
4. Daily regime. It is easier for the body to work if it is accustomed to certain actions at a specific time: go to bed at 10 pm, wake up at 7 am. Leapfrogging between bedtimes and wake-ups is more debilitating than physical activity.

Healthy and adequate sleep is a necessary element for recuperation

Diet for chronic fatigue syndrome

Depression and bad mood are often associated with a lack of vitamins and nutrients in the body. The patient’s task is to compensate for the deficiency and balance the diet.

Experts recommend introducing the following products into your diet:

• seaweed;
• feijoa;
• cottage cheese;
• vegetable soups;
• porridge: buckwheat, rice, pea, oatmeal;
• kefir, yogurt, fermented baked milk;
• greens: spinach, lettuce, parsley, celery;
• honey with nuts;
• salted fish (200 g per week);
• shellfish and other seafood;
• rabbit meat;
• grape juice;
• lean veal;
• dark chocolate (but in small quantities).

What should you give up? The list of prohibited products is presented as follows:

• coffee;
• strong tea;
• fatty food;
• sweets: cakes, caramel;
• smoked products;
• cocoa;
• alcoholic products;
• carbonated drinks.

Prohibited products - photo gallery

Cocoa is excluded from the diet during treatment Coffee has a stimulating effect, but its duration is short Alcoholic drinks suppress the immune system, and deterioration of the immune system is one of the reasons for the development of the syndrome

Therapeutic exercise and massage

Therapeutic gymnastics has a complex effect. It activates all body systems, improves metabolism and helps remove harmful substances.

To perform the exercises, no special conditions are required, because you can do gymnastics in a chair without being distracted from the work process. Breathing is important - even and deep.

The initial stage is muscle relaxation. Then they begin to perform gymnastics:

1. Perform head turns to the right and left with fixation in the extreme position.
2. Lower your head forward all the way, fix the position for a few seconds and move your head back.
3. Pressing your chin to your chest, turn your head left and right (the chin should not come off your chest).
4. Pull your chin forward and pull your shoulders back.

A soothing massage is another way to relax. The technique eliminates muscle tension and soreness, improves blood circulation and tissue nutrition.

It is recommended to use the services of specialists. However, you can massage problem areas yourself, making circular movements around sore joints and neck.

Folk remedies

To increase the body's resistance at home, you can use traditional medicine. You should consult a doctor and consult before using them to rule out an allergic reaction.

Aqueous tinctures are very effective. A striking example is St. John's wort. To prepare you need:

1. Add 1 tbsp to 100 ml of boiling water. l. dry herb St. John's wort.
2. Let the product sit for 30 minutes.
3. A glass of medicine is divided into 3 parts and consumed throughout the day 20 minutes before meals.

Common plantain also has many beneficial properties; the plant is also suitable for eliminating chronic fatigue. To prepare the composition you need:

1. Take 10 g of dry leaves and chop them, pour 300 ml of boiling water.
2. Set the composition for 30 minutes.
3. Take the product 3 times a day, 2 tbsp. l. The duration of treatment is 3 weeks. Take the medicine 30 minutes before meals.

Herbal remedies are effective for chronic fatigue syndrome. The recipe is simple:

1. Mix oats, prickly tartar leaves and dry peppermint leaves (2 tablespoons of each ingredient).
2. Pour the composition with 5 cups of boiling water.
3. Infuse the product for 60–90 minutes (the vessel is wrapped in a terry towel).
4. The duration of treatment is 15 days. Drink half a glass 3-4 times a day before meals.

Lingonberries and strawberries are rich in vitamins and have a general strengthening effect. It is not necessary to take berries; it is enough to use plant leaves. Prepare the medicine as follows:

1. Chopped plant leaves (1 tablespoon each) are mixed and poured with 500 ml of boiling water.
2. The medicine is infused in a thermos for 40 minutes. Take a teaspoon of tincture 3 times a day.

Clover remedy relieves fatigue and has a tonic effect. It is easy to prepare a decoction:

1. Place 1 liter of warm water on the fire, add 300 g of dried clover flowers into the water.
2. Boil the product for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the broth from the heat and cool, add 100 g of sugar to it, stir thoroughly.
4. Take the infusion 3-4 times a day, 150 ml. Can be used as tea, but in the specified dosage.

Ginger is used to boost immunity. The plant has a positive effect on the emotional background and also strengthens strength.

First recipe:

1. Grind 150 g of ginger root, add 800 ml of alcohol or vodka.
2. Infuse the composition for 1 week, consume 1 tsp. 1 per day.

Second recipe:

1. A piece of root (the size of a thumbnail) is grated and poured with 200 ml of boiling water.
2. Leave the product for 15 minutes. To improve the taste, you can add a little lemon juice or honey.
3. The drug is drunk throughout the day.

Healing plants in the photo

Plantain has a calming effect St. John's wort is often used as an antidepressant Ginger root strengthens the immune system and gives strength

Symptoms of CFS

So, what are the signs of an insidious disease?

• Fatigue haunts a person for at least six months. On the part of the muscles, it can be manifested by weakness of the limbs, that is, the legs and arms do not seem to obey, there is some clumsiness in movements.
• Frequent headaches, decreased attention, memory problems, and forgetfulness are observed. A person with CFS may be somewhat apathetic, distracted, and inhibited. Completing the assigned tasks is becoming increasingly difficult.

• Depression is likely to occur. A person with CFS becomes emotionally unstable, irritable, intolerant, hot-tempered, and susceptible to dark or anxious thoughts.
• Sleep is disturbed, becomes shallow and restless. The patient may suffer from nightmares, often accompanied by profuse sweating. As a result, the general condition is characterized by weakness and drowsiness. Lack of normal sleep makes a person with CFS lethargic and lacking initiative.
• Hand tremors and dull aching pain throughout the body may be disturbing: muscles and joints are most often affected. There is no swelling or changes in the skin. The temperature may rise to 37.4–37.9 °C.
• There is a danger of enlargement of lymph nodes, for example, cervical or submandibular ones, accompanied by painful sensations. This indicates a decrease in immunity, which is typical for people suffering from CFS.

• A decrease in appetite leads to a decrease in body weight; due to a lack of necessary substances, the patient notes the resulting pallor of the skin and the appearance of premature wrinkles.

Most often, with such symptoms, patients are told about the development of neuroses or, for example, vegetative-vascular dystonia. However, the treatment prescribed in such cases turns out to be ineffective. Clinical studies are being conducted, but the indicators are often within normal limits, while the patient’s condition worsens.

It is very important to consult with your doctor in time and undergo comprehensive examinations, since the signs of CFS are similar to the clinical picture of other diseases. It is the doctor who must diagnose the presence of chronic fatigue syndrome in the patient, having studied the existing symptoms, and prescribe treatment that promotes a speedy recovery.

How to deal with constant fatigue on your own?

If a person suffers from CFS, then it is impossible to cure this condition on your own, as an integrated approach is required. But without actions that the patient is quite capable of performing on his own, chronic fatigue is unlikely to subside.

You can get rid of chronic fatigue and drowsiness on your own if:

• reduce the level of mental stress;
• build and maintain the correct daily routine, alternating moderate work with proper rest;
• moderate physical activity;
• spend a lot of time outdoors;
• take long walks (some experts recommend extending them to five hours);
• engage in swimming, gymnastics, breathing exercises (to determine the optimal level of exercise, you must consult your doctor);
• engage in activities that bring positive emotions;
• eat right, eating foods rich in vitamins and microelements;
• stop eating sugar in large quantities;
• do not drink alcohol;
• refuse activities that provoke stressful conditions in the patient.

Is it time to see a doctor?

Every person has probably encountered such phenomena as overwork, bad mood, a feeling of chronic “lack of sleep,” irritation, and loss of strength. Most often it seems that these problems will go away after a long vacation or at least a relaxing weekend. If this does not happen after a long rest, and the feeling of weakness does not leave even after a night's sleep, there are the first signs of a more serious problem than overwork. Chronic pathological fatigue persists even with reduced loads and proper rest. A person feels sick, but does not know what and how to treat.

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Dangers - hidden and obvious

As a rule, the prognosis for fatigue syndrome is favorable, the disease can be treated - of course, if it is adequate and timely. But, if you do not attach importance to this condition for a long time and do not fight it, then it is fraught with the development of secondary diseases later. This:

• infectious and viral diseases;
• pathologies of the male and female reproductive system;
• Parkinson's disease in old age;
• schizophrenia and epilepsy (especially for children).

How to overcome fatigue

If you have a similar feeling regularly, starting from the very morning, you are in a bad mood, you often have a headache, your vitality is at minimum levels, and everything only gets worse every day, then in such a situation you definitely need the help of a doctor.

However, you can independently try to overcome the systematically creeping fatigue and get rid of apathy. Any person ever feels a loss of strength. The most efficient method of “getting energy” is to consume a portion of carbohydrates. Fresh fruit, porridge, vegetables and bread are quite suitable for these purposes. However, energy of this kind is not distinguished by its longevity.

To “recharge” the body for a longer period of time, you will need food enriched with fiber. The time interval for digestion is much longer, while energy is constantly supplied. Proteins and nuts are healthy, but there is a very important nuance - such food is high in calories, so it is not recommended in large quantities.

The next measure in case of decreased performance, to restore strength, is to consume a high dose of vitamin C. It has the ability to burn fats for energy. Contained in vegetables, fruits, especially citrus fruits.

A concomitant sign of fatigue may be a headache, and possible dehydration. The body urgently needs liquid, of course, within reasonable limits. If your blood pressure is normal, drinking green tea is an excellent alternative to coffee.

Let's move on, next in line is stress, excessive workload, and finally, just a simple regular lack of sleep. All these are key factors that have a tremendous impact on the occurrence of fatigue. Relentless monitoring of your lifestyle is necessary. For example, sleep time should range from 7-8 hours. Moreover, deviations in any direction, not just less, can lead to excessive drowsiness. The main criteria for healthy sleep: “strong”, uninterrupted.

Down with chronic fatigue

Below are some simple recommendations on how you can restore strength at home, eliminate apathy and restore vigor.

1. If, upon returning home after work, you feel severe muscle fatigue, then you should not start having dinner as quickly as possible. Try to initially rest and relax, since eating, as well as the further process of digestion, is an energy-intensive activity.

Take a comfortable position, lying down, raising your legs, leaning them against the wall, preferably at the greatest possible angle. This type of rest can cause blood flow. The result will be a partial relief of leg fatigue, possibly some relief.

2. Then you can try more “radical” methods. Don't be lazy, just 5 minutes. spend on foot baths that significantly increase blood circulation.

You will need two basins with hot (over 40 g) and cold (30 g) water.

Alternately lower your legs into each of the basins, literally for a couple of seconds. The number of repetitions is at least three.

3. Another effective measure to eliminate leg pain and relieve heaviness is a hot foot bath. The herbal infusion can be prepared in advance. The raw materials used are: chamomile, sage, lavender, valerian. Pre-crushed, dried herb (2 tbsp) is combined with very hot water (1000 ml). Allow to stand for half an hour and filter. This procedure has a calming effect on the nervous system and promotes rapid restoration of strength. There are contraindications - varicose veins.

4. Taking a general bath has a beneficial effect on the body as a whole. You can add many components, for example, a decoction of bay leaves.

To prepare, you need to pour ten small bay leaves with cold water (1000 ml). Boil for a third of an hour. The water temperature should not be high, the duration of use is a maximum of five minutes.

5. A warm shower does an excellent job of eliminating muscle fatigue. If you are planning household chores in the evening, then the final stream of the shower should be slightly cool to maintain the tone of the whole body. After finishing the water procedures, you should rub yourself thoroughly with a terry towel.

Who is prone to chronic fatigue

Even taking into account the fact that doctors do not know the exact cause of this syndrome, statistics identify risk groups of people prone to constant fatigue. This list includes:

1. From a geographical point of view, residents of large cities, as well as people living in areas with increased radioactive danger and high concentrations of chemicals in the air, are more often exposed to this disease.

2. Assessing the age of patients, doctors note that chronic fatigue can affect literally anyone, from teenagers to very old people. However, the main risk of developing CFS occurs between 20 and 40 years of age, and the vast majority of those seeking help from a doctor are women.

3. If we talk about professional activities, in most cases doctors, teachers, as well as people involved in business and entrepreneurship encounter chronic fatigue.

Causes of the disease

Doctors cannot yet pinpoint the exact causes of CFS, but experts have identified a number of factors that may increase the risk of developing this condition. The occurrence of CFS can be triggered by:

• Chronic diseases. They weaken the immune system, lead to overwork of the nervous system, and exhaustion of the entire body.
• Emotional disorders. A constant state of stress or depression, feelings of depression, anxiety, and fear negatively affect the nervous system, which leads to overwork.
• Unhealthy Lifestyle. Constant lack of sleep, improperly organized daily routine, prolonged physical or mental stress, lack of fresh air, sunlight, and a sedentary lifestyle can create the ground for the development of CFS.
• Poor nutrition. Eating low-quality foods, overeating or undereating, a diet poor in vitamins and nutrients - all this affects the metabolism, leads to a lack of energy in the body and to a state of constant fatigue.
• Polluted ecology. Living in an environment with poor environmental conditions negatively affects all body systems. He is forced to protect himself from the harmful effects of the environment, working at maximum speed. When the body constantly works for wear and tear, chronic fatigue occurs.
• Viruses and infections (cytomegalovirus, herpes, enterovirus, rotavirus and others) can lead the body to a state of constant fatigue.