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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Homeopathy

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a devastating and complex disorder. Some people suffer debility and complex disorder characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and that may be worsened by physical or mental activity. If the symptoms continue for more than six months, these patients can then be said to have developed what has become known as the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

There is no one single cause of CFS. It is an umbrella term to cover all causes of chronic fatigue. There are many causes of fatigue including stress, overwork, lack of sleep, inadequate diet, long-term dieting and illness eg. myalgic encephalo, Candida, anemia or post viral condition.

Symptoms:

  • Impaired memory, difficulty in concentration, confusion, extremely variable and labile emotions.
  • Post-exertion malaise, where physical or mental exertions bring on "extreme, prolonged exhaustion and sickness".
  • Unrefreshing sleep, altered sleeping patterns, from severe insomnia to excessive.
  • Severe muscular weakness and tiredness with frustration.
  • Pain in muscle and in multiple joints
  • Sore throat
  • Tender lymph nodes (arm or neck)

When you seek professional help:

When you find a new onset (not lifelong) of severe fatigue for six consecutive months or greater duration which is unrelated to exertion, which even do not diminish after sufficient rest, and is not a result of other medical conditions; then you must seek professional advice.

Diet and lifestyle:

Ensure adequate rest and relaxation. Go to bed at the same time each day to regulate your rest pattern. Keep active; try an outdoor activity such as walking or something more relaxing like yoga to stimulate your body. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit together with regular protein (preferably low fat meats, fish or vegetarian alternatives) and carbohydrates such as pasta, potatoes and rice to provide a steady energy supply. It is also important to eat small regular meals, which can also help to maintain constant sugar level. Avoid sugar and stimulants such as tea, coffee and alcohol, which only give a temporary boost to blood sugar levels. Try to quit smoking as this robs the body of nutrients involved in the energy cycle.

Useful supplements:

  • Magnesium: diets low in this mineral can lead to fatigue.
  • Vitamin B complex: they are fundamental in the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose which the body ‘burns’ to produce energy.
  • Co-enzyme Q10: this is a vitamin like substance found in the mitochondria of every cell. The mitochondria are the energy generators of the cell.
  • Siberian Ginseng: ginseng is an ‘adaptogen’ which help the body during the period of stress and exertion

Homeopathy management:

Unfortunately, no specific treatment in orthodox or conventional medicinal world for CFS has yet been developed. However, homoeopathic prescribing does not depend on diagnosis, and can be based on the total symptom picture. Homeopathy prescription is based on mental, emotional and physical symptoms while treating any individual. I cannot name any specific remedy for permanent solution for CFS because I often have to change the remedy and potency according to individual symptoms.