Causes and risk factors
The exact cause for chronic fatigue syndrome is not known, however various theories have been put forth. Variety of cause can lead to CFS.A weak immune system plays a major role in this. Infections particularly viral can also lead to chronic fatigue. Several imbalances in the hormones and biochemical imbalances contribute to the causation. Various metabolic and psychiatric disorders like diabetes mellitus, thyroid diseases, and stress, and emotional trauma, neurological and cardiac diseases can also lead to fatigue.
Clinical presentation:
Chronic fatigue syndrome can cause variety of symptoms. The symptoms can range from mild to severe. The patient complains of body ache, weakness and fatigue. The individual lacks strength in doing activity. Any activity physical or mental aggravates the complaints. They find difficulty in managing the family and social circles. They are too ill to go to work or school. Sore throat, headaches, muscle pain, pain in various joints of the body and difficulty in sleep are the other associated complaints seen.
Investigations:
AS it CFS has got variety of symptoms, it can mimic many other diseases. Hence at times diagnosing CFS becomes difficult. There is no specific test for diagnosing CFS. Reviewing of the medical history of the patient is essential. Various investigations can be carried out to rule out other diseases. Routine blood test, serum electrolytes levels, specialized blood test along with X-ray, MRI or CT scan can be advised.
Treatment:
There is no specific cure for CFS. Treatment aims at relieving the symptoms. Pain relieving medications, or anti depressants or anti psychotic medications can be started. Cognitive behavioral therapy and graded exercise therapy are the measures adopted which have found to be effective in treatment. Supportative care by friends and family is must in such cases.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Acupuncture which is the science of insertion of fine needles on the certain stimulating spots on the body has proved to be effective.
Recent update:
As per an article at medindia, chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with changes in the brain involving brain circuits that regulate motor activity and motivation.
