Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) is also referred to as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). It can impact a person’s ability and ability to do everyday tasks. This is a long-term, complex illness that can cause severe fatigue and pain. CFS can cause fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and impairment in daily functioning. The condition lasts more than six months. CFS is not a psychological disorder, but a biological condition. It is not known what caused CFS. There are many mechanisms and molecules that can lead to immune dysfunction, hormonal regulation, and metabolism, as well as abnormalities in response to oxidative stresses. These include impaired natural killer cell function and/or T cell function, elevated levels of cytokines, and autoantibodies. Talk to a counsellor online at TalktoAngel to learn more about chronic fatigue syndrome.

CFS Signs

Post-exertional malaise is the main symptom of ME/CFS. It means that your symptoms become worse after exercising or mental effort, and don’t improve when you sleep or get enough rest. PEM can cause severe disability and reduce your ability for daily activities.

A common misconception about ME/CFS is that they have chronic fatigue and are only tired. ME/CFS can also manifest as persistent and profound fatigue. PEM may also be associated with other symptoms common to ME/CFS.

• Poor concentration, memory loss, or thinking problems
• Sleep difficulties include not refreshing sleep
• Dizziness, headaches, or heavy-headedness
• Sore throat, muscle pain, joint pain
• Gastrointestinal changes such as diarrhea, constipation, or nausea
• Sensitivity to light, noise, food, medicine, or chemicals
• Temperature regulation problems

Every person is unique, so your symptoms might be mild or more severe. Talk to a counsellor online at TalktoAngel for more information.

Causes

The lack of a biological marker and the heterogeneous nature of the illness has made it difficult to determine cause and effect. However, there has been some progress, especially when the causes can be divided into predisposing and triggering factors, as well as maintaining factors.

For unknown reasons, chronic fatigue syndrome is more common in women than it is in men. However, there is increasing evidence that the illness may be genetic. Premorbid mood disorders can be replicated as risk factors for chronic fatigue syndrome. These risks could be increased by sharing symptoms or maybe indicators for patients with comorbid mental disorders. A premorbid risk indicator that is also replicated is the increased consultation of a doctor about minor illnesses for up to 15 years prior to diagnosis. This suggests a general vulnerability to ill health and seeking care.

Chronic fatigue syndrome can be caused by certain infectious diseases, like Q fever, Epstein-Barr virus, and viral meningitis. There is little evidence of chronic fatigue syndrome in patients being infected with persistent infections. Although no immune cause has been identified, preliminary research suggests that these patients might have abnormal immune responses to exercise. Chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms are similar to those of acute infection. Chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with low levels of cortisol. Recent research suggests that this could be secondary to long-term chronic fatigue syndrome.

Treatment

ME/CFS is not a treatable condition. However, a doctor might be able to work with patients to manage their symptoms. Because ME/CFS is a condition that affects everyone differently, the treatment plan for each person will be different. Pacing or activity management is one way to reduce fatigue from activity. An online therapist will help the person determine the best balance between rest and activity. They will also be able to identify their triggers and determine how much exertion is acceptable.

• Sleep

ME/CFS can cause fatigue and disrupt sleep. The doctor will advise the patient to have healthy sleeping habits such as a consistent sleep schedule. If none of these strategies work, the doctor might prescribe medication.

• Pain

A doctor might recommend some medicine to treat headaches or other pain. This may not be effective and the doctor may recommend stronger medication. ME/CFS patients may be sensitive to certain chemicals. Before taking any new medication, they should consult a doctor. Gentle stretching and toning exercises as well as gentle massage, heat therapy, and water therapy may be helpful.

• Depression and anxiety

People with ME/CFS are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Although antidepressant drugs can help in some cases, they can also make the symptoms worse. Relaxation techniques such as massage, deep breathing, and gentle exercise can help.

Talk to an online counselor to discuss your mental health concerns. Online therapy can help you find different ways to manage anxiety and depression.

Lifestyle Tips

There are many strategies that can be used to manage ME/CFS.

These include:

• Finding a doctor who is familiar with the condition
• Seeking assistance from an online therapist to help you with your practical and emotional problems
• Family and friends should be made aware of symptoms and possible challenges
• To maximize your quality of life, schedule rest and activity time
• Use calendars and journals as memory aids
• Learn which relaxation techniques work best for you
• A balanced, nutritious diet is essential
• If tests show a deficiency, nutritional supplements can be taken.
• If possible, find someone to help with household chores and child care during difficult times

Talk to a counsellor online at TalktoAngel to learn more information.