The causes of CFS are yet unknown to science. Sole thing proven is that chronic infections with yeast-fungi or viruses (herpes or others, for example) are not responsible for CFS. Experts assume that introverted people or perfectionists with high expectations upon themselves are more prone to CFS. Apparently, physical inactivity in childhood leads to an increased risk for suffering under CFS.
It is assumed that mental stress, drastic experiences or infects might be a trigger for CFS. People concerned try to find more rest during the day or withdraw from any activity because they are fearing an even stronger exhaustion. This might intensify nighttime sleeping problems and this in turn leads to a no longer restful healthy sleep. And this might lead to an increased awareness of the physical symptoms of CFS.
Diagnosis and treatment of CFS
It is not easy to diagnose CFS. Therefore, for diagnosis attempts are made to exactly collect the medical history and to exclude other diseases with similar symptoms.
Examples of diseases with similar symptoms:
- Eating disorders
- Dementia
- Mental disturbances and neuropsychological diseases (for example depressions, drug addiction)
- Malignant tumors
- Blood disorders
- Deficiency syndromes (vitamin deficiency etc.)
So far, the scientists have no agreement on the treatment of CFS. The therapy aims in treatment of the most stressing symptoms which leads to an increasing quality of life. Examples:
- Relaxation techniques when suffering under sleep disturbances
- Change of diet
- Medication, like for example analgesics for headache or joint pain
- Adaption of mental and physical activities to the available power
- As much rest as needed
After treatment and sometimes even spontaneously CFS might improve after months or years. But, the recurrence rate of CFS after an infection, physical exertion or stress phase is very high.
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