Natural Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

21 Mar

March 2013 – Chronic Fatigue

Dr. Mundeir Newsletter 1

By now most of my current patients have been to the new space, I’m enjoying the new office and the company of the wonderful people I have the honor of sharing space with.

I’m looking forward to a few speaking engagements in the next two months, do you know of a group that may be looking for a speaker for their meetings or events? Keep me in mind, I love educating people about Naturopathic Medicine and how it can help solve so many health concerns.

Spring is upon us and I’m enjoying this weather by spending more time outdoors. Spring is also a great time to do a cleanse – schedule a short consultation with Dr. Mundeir to find a cleanse that is best suited for your body.

National Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Awareness Month

Fatigue can be crippling, keeping patients from participating fully in their lives. When fatigue lasts for periods over 6 months, it is diagnosed as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). Symptoms of CFS can persist for years and it can be difficult to diagnose and treat.

Although a number of triggers have been associated with CFS, the cause remains largely unknown. It is mainly a diagnosis of exclusion after other possible causes of fatigue are ruled out. Chronic fatigue can be due to the Epstein-Barr virus, Herpes virus, or inflammation in the nervous system or the body in general. Many people who suffer from adrenal insufficiency may also present with symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.

Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome include extreme exhaustion, issues with sleep, difficulty concentrating, muscle and joint pain, and headaches. Symptoms can be worsened with activity and often are accompanied by depression and are not relieved by rest.

Environmental factors and genetics can play a role in the development of CFS and the condition is most prevalent in women between the ages of 30 and 50. While fatigue is a relatively common symptom in several illnesses, CFS is not a common illness that disrupts the lifestyle of patients.

It is imperative to keep ourselves adequately hydrated since decreased water intake can decrease blood flow to organs, including the brain, thus slow down organ function. It is also important to follow a well balanced diet, with adequate healthy calories and a good mix of protein and carbohydrates to help combat fatigue by properly providing our bodies with the necessary nutrients.

Naturopathic Doctors treat fatigue, long-standing fatigue, or chronic fatigue with a unique approach. Food intolerances that may contribute to inflammation in the body and thereby cause fatigue are taken into account. Tests are conducted to rule out anemia, caused by nutritional deficiencies, and steps are taken to optimize thyroid and adrenal function.

If the basics fail to improve your fatigue symptoms, address this at your next naturopathic doctor’s office visit.