Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

The number one symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is an overwhelming tiredness or exhaustion that lasts at least 6 months and does not get better with rest. This exhaustion is so severe it interferes with daily life. Other names of CFS include Epstein-Barr, yuppie flu and me (myalgic encephalomyelitis). There are eight official chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms besides fatigue and they are; loss of memory, enlarged lymph nodes in neck or armpit, unexplained muscle pain or weakness, joint aches and pains, sore throat, chronic headaches, numbness or tingling in hands and feet and afternoon sleepiness. Other common symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome may include; fever and chills, irritable bowel, night sweats, chest pain, shortness of breath, chronic cough, sensitivity to light, allergies, irregular heartbeat, dizziness (orthostatic hypotension), balance problems and psychological problems like depression, mood swings, anxiety and panic attacks.

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The general feeling is one of incredible fatigue and inability to do even the simplest of tasks without becoming exhausted, inability to cope with any stress and insomnia. Common chronic fatigue syndrome causes for women is a magnesium deficiency. A magnesium deficiency has been found in those that suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia (fibro meaning the thin tissue that wraps around the muscles and myalgia meaning muscle pain) is also called fibrositis and shares many symptoms with CFA. Reports show that fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue disorder can also be caused by the accumulation of toxins and infections from both environment and lifestyle including being exposed to prescription drugs at birth. These substances can break down the immune system and deplete nutrient reserves which in turn deplete our body of magnesium. Magnesium is an important part of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue treatment. Magnesium reduces fatigue, muscle pain and chemical sensitivity.

Along with a magnesium deficiency, a recent journal Science reported that 68 out of 101 patients with symptoms of chronic fatigue were infected with the infectious virus XMRV (xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus). XMRV is a retrovirus and a member of the same family of viruses as the AIDS virus. These viruses insert themselves into their host’s genetic material or their RNA and stays for life. Although their (scientists) have not yet proven that the virus causes CFS, in theory people with CFS may have other underlying conditions that make them prone to being infected by XMRV. More studies are needed to explain the connection. Doctors at the National Cancer Institute and the Cleveland Clinic are testing antiretroviral drugs that treat HIV on patients with chronic fatigue. If the drugs work it will help prove that XMRV causes CFS.

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CFS is intensely frustrating to doctors because it is not understood, there is no effective treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome and many patients are sick for a long time. For this reason, a chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosis can only be determined after a thorough evaluation has ruled out other conditions with similar symptoms such as lupus, mono, sleep apnea, diabetes, MS, STIs and certain types of cancer.

The content provided in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms is for information purposes only, intended to raise the awareness of different solutions for you or your families sleep problems and should not be considered medical advice. For medical diagnosis and treatment, please see your qualified health-care professional.