Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by excessive tiredness, which lasts more than 6 months, has no apparent cause, which worsens when performing physical and mental activities and does not improve even after resting. In addition to excessive tiredness, other symptoms may appear, such as muscle pain, difficulty concentrating and headache.
This condition does not have a well-established cause and, therefore, the diagnosis usually involves carrying out several tests to check if there are any hormonal changes or other diseases that could justify excessive tiredness. Treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome aims to improve symptoms, with psychotherapy sessions and regular practice of physical activities indicated, as they manage to guarantee a sense of well-being.
Main symptoms
The main symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome is excessive tiredness that lasts more than 6 months and does not diminish even after resting or resting. Thus, the person always wakes up tired and complains of tiredness every day, most of the time. In addition to frequent tiredness, other symptoms may appear, such as:
- Persistent muscle pain; Joint pain; Frequent headaches; Slight restful sleep; Loss of memory and difficulties in concentration; Irritability; Depression; Stubborn pain; Anxiety; Weight loss or gain; Chest pain; Dry mouth.
As the symptoms are general, the doctor may indicate a series of tests in an attempt to identify the cause of excessive and frequent tiredness. Thus, it can indicate the performance of blood tests, especially those that assess hormone levels to check whether tiredness is a consequence of hormonal changes. In addition, a consultation with a psychologist may also be indicated for a more personal assessment.
Causes of chronic fatigue syndrome
The chronic fatigue syndrome has no definite cause, it is only known that there is a correlation between genetic and environmental factors, and that there are several mild changes in the immune system, but none of them are sufficient for an accurate diagnosis of the disease. However, some theories of the appearance of this syndrome indicate that it can be triggered by sedentary life, depression, anemia, hypoglycemia, infections, autoimmune diseases and changes in glands.
This type of syndrome is more common in women between 40 and 50 years of age, which can also cause the chronic fatigue syndrome to be confused with the symptoms of menopause, since during this period it is common for women to feel more tired and irritated due to hormonal changes. Know how to identify the signs and symptoms of menopause.
How is the treatment
Treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome should be aimed at decreasing symptoms and improving the person's ability to perform their daily tasks. The doctor may indicate:
- Psychotherapy, which can be done with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to minimize social isolation and achieve well-being; Regular practice of physical exercise to release endorphins into the bloodstream, increasing well-being, decreasing muscle pain and increasing physical endurance; Antidepressant medications, such as Fluoxetine or Sertraline, for people diagnosed with depression; Sleep medications, such as melatonin, that help you fall asleep and get adequate rest.
In addition, more natural treatments such as acupuncture, meditation, stretching, yoga and relaxation techniques may be indicated.
