Disease, Illness and Condition Library
CFC - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
disabling fatigue without a proven physical or psychological cause. Many people suffer a great deal from disorders for which no specific cause has been identified. Some medical experts believe these disorders are due to psychological factors. Others believe that the disorders are caused by physical agents, such as viruses and toxic chemicals, or by abnormalities of the immune system. Although a cause has not been proved for CFC, many people undergo considerable testing and try unproved treatments in time consuming and costly attempts to diagnose and relieve their symptoms. CFS is a debilitating disease that affects thousands of men, women and children annually. It is commonly called the “yuppie flu” and is slightly more common in women than men with symptoms including exhaustion and fever and lasting in some cases for years. This is a dangerous disease because no one knows what causes it, CFC can bring on serious depression due to fatigue and it can be found in all walks of life. Doctors say that an amazing 20 percent of their patients complain of fatigue but of that 20 percent only 4 percent meet the criteria for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It affects people primarily between the ages of 20 and 50 and is about one and a half times more common in women than men. According to the guidelines laid out by the CDC a person must have experienced debilitating fatigue for at least six months and have ruled out all other causes for this fatigue. Then they must have 8 or the following symptoms recurring or persisting for 6 months or more. Suspected Symptoms: * Muscle weakness with unknown cause *Sore throat *Swollen lymph glands *Chills or mild fever *Muscle discomfort *Fatigue after exercise (lasting 24 hours or more) *Intense headaches *Mystery joint pain without redness or swelling *Forgetfulness *Excessive irritability *Inability to concentrate *Confusion *Depression *Disturbed sleep patterns *Symptoms which develop quickly (within a few hours or days) You are probably looking at the list above and rightfully drawing the conclusion that these are these symptoms could be associated with many ailments and diseases. So just matching a few symptoms does not necessarily make a CFS diagnosis. That is why it is important to fully meet the guidelines laid out by the CDC (listed above) before your doctor can declare you a CFS victim. Chronic Fatigue researchers also know that many of those suffering with CFS also have common traits such as abnormal immune system response and high level of antibodies in their blood. When talking to CFS patients most say: *An infection such as the flu caused a rapid onset of CFS *CFS began during a stressful time in their lives * They are dealing with depression Therapeutic Considerations for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Since chronic fatigue syndrome is commonly considered to involve many factors, the therapeutic approach characteristically involves multiple therapies that address different facets of the clinical picture. Breaking it down into basic terms, a person’s energy level and emotional state are determined by interaction between two primary factors: internal focus and physiology. Internal focus refers to images held up before the mind’s eye as well as our “self talk” – the constant dialogue our conscious mind has with our subconscious mind. Physiology refers to the operation of the body and how it is affected by physical posture, breathing, nutrition, hormonal status, and other physical factors. Let us take a look at typical internal focus and physiology in the patient with CFS. Most people with chronic fatigue focus on how incredibly tired they are. They repeatedly reiterate their fatigue to themselves and to anyone who will listen. This imprint on the subconscious mind must be reversed in order for energy levels to be significantly uplifted. The physiology of typical CFS patients includes alterations not only in the chemicals and hormones floating around in the body, but also the way they hold their body (usually slouched) and the way they breathe (shallowly). In most patients with chronic fatigue, both the mind and the body should to be addressed. The most effective treatment is a comprehensive program that is designed to help CFS patients use their mind, attitude, and physiology to produce higher energy levels. Underlying Factors There are numerous underlying factors that must be addressed in the effective treatment of CFS. Most notably: depression, stress, impaired detoxification, excessive gut permeability, impaired immune function, chronic candidiasis, food allergies, hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, and low adrenal function. Depression: The first factor to address is any underlying depression. Depression is one of the chief causes of chronic fatigue, and it is one of the familiar features of CFS. In the absence of a preexisting physical condition, depression is generally regarded as the most common cause of chronic fatigue. Yet, it is often tricky to determine whether the depression preceded the fatigue or vice versa. Stress: Stress is another factor to consider in chronic fatigue or CFS. Stress can be the underlying factor in the patient with depression, low immune function, or other causes of chronic fatigue. Impaired Detoxification: Exposure to food additives, solvents (cleaning materials, formaldehyde, toluene, benzene, etc.), pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, nickel, and aluminum), and other toxins can seriously stress the liver and detoxification processes. This exposure can lead to a condition labeled by naturopathic and nutrition leaning physicians as the “congested liver” or “sluggish liver” or the more recently coined “impaired hepatic detoxification.” These terms signify a reduced ability of the liver to detoxify. Among the additional symptoms people with a sluggish liver may complain of are depression, general malaise, headaches, digestive disturbances, allergies and chemical sensitivity, premenstrual syndrome, and constipation. An interesting multi-clinic research study of chronically ill patients, many of whom were diagnosed as suffering from CFS, evaluated the efficacy of a comprehensive detoxification program. Patients were laced on a hypoallergenic diet and provided a dietary food supplement rich in nutrients that facilitate liver detoxification. The patients reported a 52% reduction in symptoms after ten weeks, and symptom improvement was mirrored by normalization of liver detoxification mechanisms. Improved Immune Function and/or Chronic Infection: When the immune system is weakened, infections can linger and fatigue may persist. There is a good reason for fatigue during an infection: fatigue is the body’s response mechanism to infection because the immune system works best when the body is at rest. In order to determine the role that the immune system is playing in the individual with CFS, answer the series of question listed below: * Do you get more than 2 colds per year? * When you catch a cold, does it take more than five to seven days to get rid of the symptoms? * Have you ever had infectious mononucleosis? * Do you have herpes? * Do you suffer from chronic infections of any kind? Chronic Candida Infection: On of the most common findings in individuals with impaired immune function is gastrointestinal overgrowth of Candida albicans. Candidal overgrowth is now becoming recognized as a complex medical syndrome, also known as “the yeast syndrome” and chronic candidiasis.” This overgrowth is believed to be caused by a wide variety of symptoms in virtually every system of the body, with the gastrointestinal, genitourinary, endocrine, nervous, and immune systems being the most susceptible. Food Allergies: As far back as 1930, chronic fatigue was documented as a key feature of food allergies. Originally, Albert Rowe, M.D., one of the foremost allergists of this century, described a syndrome known as “allergic toxemia” that included the symptoms of fatigue, muscle and joint aches, drowsiness, difficulty in concentration, nervousness, and depression. Around the 1950’s this syndrome began to be referred to as the “allergic tension fatigue syndrome.” With the current focus on CFS, many physicians and others are forgetting that food allergies can lead to chronic fatigue. Furthermore, between 55 and 85% of individuals with CFS have allergies. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is a frequent cause of chronic fatigue. Nevertheless, the condition is often overlooked. The reason may be the dependence on standard blood measurements of thyroid hormone levels as the method of diagnosis. Undiagnosed hypothyroidism is a serious concern, as failure to treat such a critical underlying problem will decrease the effectiveness of all other measures designed to increase energy levels. Hypoglycemia: The relationship between hypoglycemia and fatigue is well known. What is not as well understood is the effect that hypoglycemia plays in contributing to depression. Numerous studies have shown that depressed individuals suffer from hypoglycemia. Since depression is the most common cause of chronic fatigue, hypoglycemia must always be considered as an underlying factor. Low Adrenal Function: The adrenal glands are two small glands that lie on top of the kidneys and secrete important hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Low adrenal function was first proposed as a cause of chronic fatigue over fifty years ago. A small but growing body of evidence now supports the role of low or altered adrenal function in CFS. One of the major symptoms of low or altered function is incapacitating fatigue. Low adrenal function is also characterized by a stressful event, followed by feverishness, joint pain, muscle ache, swollen lymph glands, fatigue, worsening of allergic responses, and disturbances of mood and sleep. These symptoms are strikingly similar to those of CFS. Enhancing adrenal function is an important goal in managing some CFS cases. Mind and Attitude: The mind and attitude play a significant role in determining the status of the immune system and energy levels. Many patients who have chronic fatigue (including CFS) are either depressed or seem to have lost a sense of enthusiasm for life. Of course, it’s not easy to have a lot of enthusiasm when a person does not have much energy. But the two usually go hand in hand. The first step in overcoming CFS is for the person with CFS to understand that it is possible to get better. Many people with CFS are told that it is “something they will have to live with” and that “there is no cure”. Achieving or maintaining a positive mental attitude is vital to good health and high energy levels, especially in CFS. In order to attain a positive state of mind, a person needs to exercise or condition the attitude, much like the way in which on would condition the body. To help in this process, practice the mental exercises – visualizations, goal setting, affirmations, and empowering questions. Diet: Energy level appears to be directly related to the quality of the foods routinely eaten. It is particularly important to eliminate or restrict intake of refined sugar and caffeine. Sugar is a major contributor to hypoglycemia, and caffeine stresses the adrenal glands. Although caffeine consumption provides temporary stimulation, regular caffeine intake may actually lead to chronic fatigue. While mice fed one dose of caffeine demonstrated significant increases in their swimming capacity, when the dose of caffeine was given for six weeks, a considerable decrease in swimming capacity was observed. Be aware that abrupt cessation of coffee drinking will, in all probability, result in symptoms of caffeine withdrawal, including fatigue, headache, and an intense desire for coffee. Luckily this withdrawal period should not last for more than a few days. Supplementation Nutritional supplementation is crucial in the treatment of chronic fatigue. A shortage of virtually any nutrient can produce the symptoms of fatigue and render the body more susceptible to infection. Individuals with chronic fatigue require at the bare minimum: a high potency multivitamin and mineral formula, along with extra vitamin C (3,000 mg per day in divided doses) and magnesium (500 to 1,200 mg in divided doses). Magnesium: An underlying magnesium deficiency, even if very mild, can result in chronic fatigue and symptoms similar to CFS. In addition low red blood cell magnesium levels, a more accurate measure of magnesium status than routine blood breakdown have been found in many patients with chronic fatigue and CFS. Several studies have shown excellent results with magnesium supplementation. For example, in one double blind placebo controlled trial, thirty two CGS patients received either an intramuscular injection of magnesium sulfate (1 gram in 2 ml of injectable water) or a placebo (2 ml of injectable water) for six weeks. At the end of the study, twelve of the fifteen patients receiving magnesium reported, based on strict criteria, appreciably improved energy levels, better emotional states, and less pain. In contrast, only three of seventeen placebo patients reported that they felt better, and only one reported an improvement in energy level. This study seems to confirm some striking results obtained in clinical trials during the 1960’s on patients suffering from chronic fatigue. These studies utilized oral magnesium and potassium aspartate (1 gram each) rather than injectable magnesium. Between 75 and 91% of the nearly three thousand patients studied experienced relief of fatigue during treatment with the magnesium and potassium aspartate. In contrast, the number of patients responding to a placebo was between 9 and 26%. The beneficial effect was usually noted after only four to five days, but on occasion ten days were required. Patents usually continued treatment for four to six seeks; afterward fatigue frequently did not return. Injectable magnesium is not necessary to restore magnesium status. Absorption studies show that magnesium is easily absorbed orally when it is bound to aspartate or citrate. In addition, both of these compounds may also help fight off fatigue. Aspartate feeds into the Krebs cycle, the final common pathway for the conversion of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids to chemical energy (adenosine triphoshate, or ATP), while citrate, fumarate, malate, and succinate, usually provide a better form of mineral supplement; evidence suggests that minerals bound (chelated) to the Krebs cycle intermediates are better absorbed, utilized, and tolerated compared to inorganic or relatively insoluble mineral salts, including magnesium chloride, oxide, or carbonate. Additional Therapies Breathing, Posture, and Bodywork: Proper care of the body is important to high energy levels. Breathing with the diaphragm, good posture, and body work (massage, spinal manipulation, etc.) are all important in helping to relieve the stress that is a common contributor to fatigue. Exercise: Exercise alone has been shown to have a tremendous impact on improving mood and the ability to handle stressful life situation. Regular exercise has also been shown to lead to improved immune status. For CGS patients, regular exercise has been shown to lead to a significant increase (up to 100%) in natural killer cell activity. Although more demanding exercise is required to benefit the cardiovascular system, light to moderate exercise may be best for the immune system. On study found that immune function was significantly increased by the practice of Tai Chi exercises. Tai Chi is a martial arts technique that features the movement from one posture to the next in a flowing motion resembling dance. The research thus far suggests that light to moderate exercise stimulates the immune system, while intense exercise can have the opposite effect. Botanical Medicine Siberian Ginseng: In addition to sustaining adrenal function and acting to increase the resistance to stress, Siberian ginseng has been shown to exert a number of beneficial effects on immune function that may be useful in the treatment of CFS. In one double blind study, thirty six healthy subjects received either 10 ml of a fluid extract of Siberian ginseng or a placebo daily for four weeks. The group receiving the Siberian ginseng demonstrated considerable improvements in a variety of immune system parameters. Most notable were a significant increase in T helper cells and an increase in natural killer cell activity – both of which are of value in the treatment of CFS. Licorice: Considering the possible roles of viral infection and low adrenal function in CGS, licorice root with its antiviral and adrenal supportive properties would appear to be an ideal botanical for this condition. Ironically, licorice therapy has not been rigorously evaluated, although an excellent response in a single patient has been reported. The main danger of licorice use is that is may cause sodium and water retention, resulting in high blood pressure, if ingested regularly at a dosage of 3 grams of licorice root per day for more than six weeks. Monitoring of blood pressure is suggested. Prevention of the blood pressure – raising effects of licorice may be possible by following a high potassium low sodium diet. Although no formal trial has been performed, patients who generally consume high potassium foods and restrict sodium intake, even those with high blood pressure and angina, have been reported to be free from the blood pressure raising effects of licorice. Helpful Tips for Dealing with CFS CFS is a tricky disease with no cure at the present time but there are treatments that can reduce the symptoms. As with most diseases which were discounted for many years but now are accepted as serious physical problems there tends to be a flurry of research activity. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is no different. Basic Tips for dealing with CFS Don’t overdo it! – Get enough rest. Your body is trying to heal give it the help it needs. Don’t fail to see a doctor – If you are in a great deal of pain take time out to visit your doctor for help. Eat Right – There is no evidence showing a direct link between CFC and nutrition but some CFS suffers claim to feel better when eating meals with adequate nutrients. Others report feeling better when the diet is low in sugar and fat. Moderate activity – Remember you have less energy than everyone else so make good use of it. Some CFS suffers plan out their days making sure the most important tasks are done first, and then balance out the rest of the day. Do something active – We have discussed how overexertion makes the condition worse and may prolong the disease but a small amount of exercise could help. An example would be stretching. Talk to someone – Those patients who can maintain a positive attitude seem to cope the best. Call a friend or find a support group. Take solace in knowing that there are others facing the same challenges.
Smarter Living for Better Health Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine Helpful Natural Supplements for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFC)
Fatigue Fighter contains a selection of herbs for healthy energy - known for their supportive function in maintaining natural health and energy levels, as well as balanced metabolism, stamina, endurance and routine, healthy performance without stimulants or caffeine. Fatigue Fighter can make all the difference, without compromising health and without the risk of serious side effects. Continue Activive - Herbal Supplement for Fatigue and Lack of Energy Activive™ is a nutritional matrix formulated to supplement what you don't find in your everyday diet. As part of a healthy lifestyle, the natural nutrition in Activive™ helps promote better well-being and increase your energy. Continue
Detox Drops contain a selection of herbs known for their supportive function in maintaining liver health and well-being. Detox Drops can be used as part of a gentle detoxification program to safely cleanse and flush out the system. It supports the body’s natural ability to remove toxins and waste by-products, without harmful side effects. Continue |
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