Primary Causes of Chronic Fatigue That Are Often Overlooked

Have you been feeling more tired lately than you ever have? Do you suspect that there’s something wrong, but you’re unsure how to pinpoint the problem, much less explain it to a medical professional for diagnosis? If so, you’re not alone. The condition known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome currently affects almost 2.5 million Americans. The good news is that you don’t have to live with fatigue in Houston! Before we delve into treatment for the condition, let’s take a look at some of the symptoms beyond mere fatigue.

The Complex Nature of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Because there is not a medical test that can diagnose CFS, most health care professionals look at the totality of a patient’s symptoms. This may include the need for several various tests in an effort to drill down on the diagnosis through a process of elimination. The process can sometimes be frustrating for patients who want an immediate answer, but ruling out other health problems that have similar symptoms is always a preferred course of action.

Most Commonly Reported Symptoms of CFS

It might go without saying, but the most noticeable symptom for many people is fatigue. But beyond that, here are some additional symptoms that integrative medical doctors will inquire about:

• Have you noticed a loss of memory or concentration?
• Are you, or have you recently experienced a sore throat?
• Have you noticed enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or armpits?
• Do you have unexplained muscle or joint pain?
• Have you been experiencing headaches?
• Do you find that you wake up in the morning feeling unrefreshed?
• Do you experience periods of extreme exhaustion that last longer than 24 hours?
• Have you experienced muscle weakness?
• Do you have a tickling, burning, or numbing sensation on your skin?
• Do you experience blurred vision or unexplained dizziness, or find it difficult to stand for long periods of time without experiencing these two symptoms?

Although fatigue can be a symptom of many illnesses, such as infections or depression, it’s recommended that you seek medical answers to your tiredness if it is accompanied by one or more of the above symptoms.

The Good News for Patients Seeking Answers

As mentioned earlier, the good news is that you don’t have to live in a state of constant fatigue. If you’re looking for a quick way to identify the cause of your fatigue, you may want to consider some common offenders such as your adrenals or thyroid, your sex hormones, a simmering infection, and your mitochondria – the powerhouse of your cells. And don’t forget to look at your environment, too. Hidden mold can be a powerful toxin – in both your home or your workplace – and can often go undetected for years.

Risk Factors and Potential Triggers for CFS

There are studies being conducted to determine whether or not a predisposition for CFS is present at birth. Some of the common triggers and causes for this line of research include:

• A link between viral infections and CFS
• An impairment of immune systems in patients with CFS
• An abnormal level of hormones produced in the hypothalamus, pituitary glands or adrenal glands
• An age-related connection since CFS most frequently affects people in their 40s and 50
• A gender-related connection since CFS is diagnosed more often in women than men – but both genders should report their symptoms to their integrative medical doctor
• A stress-related connection since CFS is frequently seen in individuals who have a more difficult time managing stress levels than their peers

The Dichotomy of CFS

One of the most confusing things for friends, family, and co-workers of those suffering from CFS is the counter-intuitive nature of one of its most common symptoms – difficulty sleeping. Many people think that by nature of the name – chronic fatigue – that sleeping would be easy. Surprisingly for many people with the condition, not only do they find a restful night difficult to attain, they often feel tired from the moment they wake up in the mornings.

The Bottom Line for Diagnosing Chronic Fatigue Syndrome in Houston, TX

If you believe you’re experiencing CFS, and want to receive a definitive diagnosis, be prepared for a little bit of detective work. However, once diagnosed, there are treatments available such as corticosteroids and antidepressants, light exercise such as yoga or water aerobics, and dietary changes with dietary supplements. But the bottom line is this: you do not have to live with chronic fatigue in Houston, TX! Contact the professional and caring staff at My Pure MD to take the first step to treat your condition.