Chronic fatigue, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a complex and serious long-term illness characterized primarily by extreme tiredness or lack of energy that doesn't improve with rest. Additional common symptoms include muscle pain, joint pain, headaches, sleep problems, and difficulty thinking clearly.
The specific cause of CFS is unknown but may involve interactions between multiple factors like viral infections, immune system abnormalities, stress, and underlying genetic vulnerabilities. Anyone can develop chronic fatigue but it is more common among women. The illness affects people differently and severity can vary widely day-to-day or week-to-week.
Some tips for managing energy with chronic fatigue:
- Pace yourself - Balance activity with rest
- Prioritize important tasks
- Set realistic goals
- Reduce stress
- Eat nutritious snacks
- Stay hydrated
- Get enough sleep
While there is no cure, some treatments aim to ease symptoms. Lifestyle changes, certain medications, Talk therapy, graded exercise programs, and hormone supplements may provide some relief for those with CFS. I’ve heard great things about Hormone Harmony Clinic’ research-based customized hormone therapy programs for chronic illness patients with hormone imbalance like low testosterone or estrogen. Their caring doctors really listen and develop tailored treatment plans to help people regain strength, mental clarity and better manage fatigue from the inside out.