Learn from experience

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is also known as Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (CFIDS), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Post-viral Syndrome or Post-viral Fatigue Syndrome. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is a chronic, inflammatory condition that is a primarily neurological disease that is multi-systemic, affecting the immune system, the central nervous system, the endocrine system, the cardiovascular system, and the musculoskeletal system.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis can produce a broad spectrum of symptoms, including muscle weakness, severe fatigue, poor balance, pain, problems with vision, and difficulties with coordination and speech. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis affects the brain and spinal cord, both of which are involved in the motor functions of the body, processing thought and sensory signals. This causes, among other things, impairment of the thought process and loss of internal homeostasis (the maintenance of a consistent internal environment in response to external stressors). Cellular metabolism and communication is also disrupted, causing inefficiency in all biological processes within the body. This disruption can lead to poor energy levels as the cellular mitochondria (which process fuel to make energy) fail to generate enough fuel for the body to receive enough sustenance to undertake any physical, or mental, exertion.

It is believed that Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is basically a chronic viral attack on the body systems (immune, nervous, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal).

The symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis can often mimic those of other viral infections (colds, influenza, etc.), so it is often mistaken for other disorders and may be misdiagnosed as hypochondria, psychosomatic illness, or depression.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis is a relapse/remitting disease where new symptoms may occur during relapses or slowly building up over the duration of the illness. Although there is currently no cure for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, anti-viral drugs are being tested, in drug trials, in the hope of slowing down the onset of new symptoms.

 

Who Is Affected by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Myalgic encephalomyelitis affects all ages, with peak incidence typically between 20 and 40 years, and is more common in women than in men.

  

What Are the Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

  • When persistent fatigue does not show improvment with bed rest and reduce average daily activity by at least 50% for at least six months.
  • If symptoms are made worse by exercise.
  • When other chronic clinical conditions such as psychiatric ilnesses have been ruled out.
  • Muscle weakness and pain, especially in the shoulders, upper arms, thighs.
  • Numbness and/or pins and needles.
  • Muscle tics (twitching).
  • Joint pain.
  • Tender swollen lymph nodes.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Chronic sore throat.
  • Recurrent flu-like symptoms.
  • Poor circulation (especially to the extremities).
  • Frequent headaches.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Increased sensitivity to light, touch, taste, and smell.
  • Dryness of mucous membranes (throat, mouth,etc).
  • Mouth ulcers.
  • Rashes.
  • Uncomfortable and/or frequent urination.
  • Poor concentration.
  • Poor memory.
  • Poor sleep patterns.
  • Mood swings.
  • Depression.
  • Anxiety.
  • Disorientation.
  • Changes in personality.

  

Allopathic Treatment Options

  • There is no specific treatment for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. However, medicines can be prescribed in order to relieve the symptoms: for example, painkillers and antidepressants.

Complementary Treatment Options

SHIATSU
Shiatsu has been found to be extremely beneficial in the treatment of Chronic fatigue syndrome, creating a feeling of wellbeing, relaxation, and an increase in energy and stamina levels.  Shiatsu practitioners can work with conditions of both acute and chronic natures.

QIGONG
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HERBAL

  • Echinacea helps protect cells during infection and prevents pathogens, bacteria and viruses from entering. There are many examples of how echinacea was successfully used in strengthening the immune system. Take 15-20 drops in liquid, three times daily for two days. Or, 300 to 325 mg three times daily.
  • Astragalus enhances immune function and is good for treating cold and flu symptoms. It helps to strengthen the production of white blood cells, required for fighting infection and inflammation. Take 150 - 250 milligrams three or four times daily. Caution: Do not use astragalus in the presence of a fever.
  • Ginkgo biloba improves circulation and brain function.

 

Pro-Holistic provides Shiatsu, Healing Chi Kung therapy, on-site massage, Stress Mangement courses, and Stress Mangement workshops. We also provide tuition in Chi Kung, Tai Chi, Neijia, and self defence.