Persistent Fatigue Syndrome

There are still many doctors who question the validity of chronic fatigue syndrome and, among doctors who do believe the condition exists, there is still fierce debate over whether its origins are of a physical or psychological nature.

It is only in recent years that the medical profession has come to commonly recognize the condition of chronic fatigue syndrome but people who are afflicted by the condition have been only too aware of the debilitating effects for years.

There are still many doctors who question the validity of chronic fatigue syndrome and, among doctors who do believe the condition exists, there is still fierce debate over whether its origins are of a physical or psychological nature. This lack of unity in medical circles leads to great confusion among the public. There are still a lot of people who believe that sufferers of this condition are nothing more than malingerers. For the sufferers of this disease, this creates added stress and confusion.

The sufferers of this condition experience continuous physical tiredness. In fact, one of the first symptoms is an overwhelming, incapacitating tiredness but this is only one aspect of the disease. This may be accompanied by aching muscles. This often affects the lifestyle of the sufferer so much that they are unable to work or to take part in social activities. For some, they become totally incapacitated.

It is quite common for a normally healthy person who generally leads an active life, to one day wake up with what they believe is a case of influenza characterized by a sore throat, swollen glands, headache and fever. He or she is too tired to even get out of bed. Obviously, the first thoughts are that they have the flu but, when weeks pass without the symptoms going away, it is a sign of chronic fatigue syndrome.

A lot of people who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome also experience severe mental tiredness which may be related to emotional turmoil that arises either from the condition itself or from the frustration sufferers can feel because of the physical exhaustion.

One of the complications that accompany this disease is that of serious cognitive problems. Processing and retention of information can become very difficult, creating even more emotional problems for the sufferer. Often, the sufferer finds it difficult to engage in a conversation as they struggle to focus on the words or to process those words. This problem also extends to written word as the sufferer may have to read the same sentence several times in order to process its meaning.

Memory loss, particularly short-term memory loss is common among sufferers of this illness. Many describe not being able to remember people’s names or the names for common things. They may also find it difficult to contribute to a conversation as they often forget words or what they are actually saying.

In the past, many people with chronic fatigue syndrome were diagnosed as having myalgic encephalomyelitis. Encephalomyelitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and that is not a characteristic of chronic fatigue syndrome so the diagnosis was incorrect. Sometimes, chronic fatigue syndrome is referred to as postviral fatigue syndrome as it often follows viral infections.

The real cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown. What is known is that it generally follows a viral infection or, more often, a series of infections.

It is important for the sufferer to follow a healthy diet in order for the recovery from this condition. It is also important to look after the health of the mind as well as the body. Time and rest are the only real treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome.

Source: http://www.healthguidance.org/authors/34/Anne-Wolski

Joint and Bones

Bones, joints, and muscles work synergistically to facilitate movement and structure. We often see signs of aging in our joints and bones before we notice effects elsewhere in our bodies. Arthritis and osteoporosis are the two main conditions to affect our joints and bones.

Researchers estimate that more than 45 million Americans suffer the aches and pains associated with arthritis. Over 100 different diseases and conditions fall under the category of arthritis, the leading cause of physical disability in the United States. Arthritis affects the joints, which is where two bones meet. Joints are meant to cushion the hard bone. In osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, there is a deterioration of the cushioning cartilage with lose of joint function and pain. Most people who live past 65 years of age will experience some osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease which causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis affects 2 million Americans with 75% of them being women. It is more debilitating than osteoarthritis. The most popular nutraceutical for counteracting the effects of arthritis is glucosamine. Glucosamine is often combined with chondroitin and MSM. Other popular products include Omega 3 Fatty Acids, Cat’s Claw (Una de Gato), and Shark cartilage.

Osteoporosis results in low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue. These lead to fragile bone resulting in 1.5 million fractures each year primarily in the hip, spine and wrist. Almost 45 million adults have osteoporosis, a number similar to arthritis sufferers. Yet a 2004 study revealed that up to one-half of osteoporosis cases go undiagnosed. Even more disturbing was the study’s finding that many of those who are diagnosed do not receive calcium and Vitamin D supplementation. The prevention and treatment of osteoporosis is best achieved through dietary supplementation. The primary supplements prescribed are calcium and vitamin D although studies also indicate bone health may be strengthened with magnesium, boron, Vitamin K and Vitamin C. Doctors recommend daily intake of 1200 mg of calcium for post-menopausal women and 1000 mg per day for pre-menopausal women. Both groups should get 1000 iu of vitamin D. This may be acquired through 15 minutes of sun exposure each day. Calcium and Vitamin D can be obtained through fortified milk or by way of a calcium supplement. Coral calcium supplements have experienced considerable popularity recently. Exercise is also important for maintaining bone density. Bone density loss cannot be reversed by exercise but walking three to five miles each week can halt its progression. Strength training is also desirable. Women should consider a bone density test as they age to help insure good bone health.

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Energy -Adequate energy level for daily activities

Each day we face a myriad of tasks both at home and at work. Hectic schedules demand adequate energy levels for successful completion of necessary activities. Yet many people find themselves plagued with low energy levels and even chronic fatigue. To compensate for lack of energy many turn to caffeine in coffee and soft drinks or to increasingly popular energy drinks.

Any number of causes may be at the root of low energy. The cause of fatigue may be something as simple as being thirsty. Inadequate liquid intake can cause you to feel sluggish and low in energy. Not eating regular meals including skipping breakfast can cause blood sugar levels to drop and fatigue to result. What you eat may also be to blame. White bread, cookies, or pasta cause a blood sugar spike which quickly wears off. Instead eat complex carbs which leave the system more slowly and provide sustained energy.

Stress and anxiety can also deplete energy levels. If you find your life full of stress, seek stress relief through exercise, a change of scenery, or a few moments of quiet meditation. Natural supplements like valerian, skullcap, or hops can provide mild relaxing effects. Ultimately stress can lead to other health problems and must be dealt with. Medications, diabetes, or thyroid problems can also contribute to chronic fatigue. If you are unsure of the cause seek a doctor’s advice and evaluation.

Poor nutrition may also result in low energy levels. For example, women are often deficient in magnesium, a key nutrient for energy. A good, broad-spectrum multivitamin may also prove beneficial to those needing to increase energy. Omega-3 fatty acids help regulate metabolism and boost oxygen intake thus increasing energy. Fish products are a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids. There are other natural supplements useful for increasing energy levels. Bee pollen has been popular for centuries and many individuals find great benefit from sublingual vitamin B12. Placed under the tongue, vitamin B 12 can give a boost of energy quickly. Ginseng has also been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The most popular forms are Panax Ginseng (also known as Korean Ginseng) and American Ginseng. Ginseng is purported to have anti-fatigue and anti-stress actions.

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