Chronic fatigue - Renewal Center

What is chronic fatigue?

Chronic fatigue, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) or systemic exertion intolerance disease (SEID), is a complex disorder characterized by extreme and persistent fatigue that is not improved by rest. The fatigue is debilitating and significantly reduces daily activity for at least 6 months in adults.

Some key facts about chronic fatigue:

• The main symptom is fatigue lasting 6 months or longer that is not relieved by rest and disrupts normal life activities
• Fatigue may get worse after physical or mental activity, known as post-exertional malaise
• People frequently report difficulty with concentration, memory, sleep, and dizziness
• No single test can diagnose ME/CFS
• Several conditions can produce similar symptoms including sleep disorders, viral infections, depression and more, so doctors do extensive testing to rule those out

Researchers believe several factors may contribute to developing ME/CFS:

• Viral infections such as Epstein-Barr
• Problems with the immune system
• Genetics
• High levels of stress

While the exact cause is still unknown, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms through lifestyle changes like:

• Pacing your activity to avoid post-exertional malaise
• Getting enough restorative rest
• Eating a healthy diet
• Reducing stress
• Supportive care like occupational or physical therapy

At Renewal Center we offer cutting-edge bioidentical hormone therapies that can help relieve fatigue and improve energy. Our treatments use identical hormones found in the human body to restore balance and optimize health. Give us a call today to see if bioidentical hormones could be right for you!

Some key challenges those with ME/CFS face are:

• Finding knowledgeable doctors familiar with current ME/CFS diagnosis and treatment
• Getting family and friends to understand the impact of fatigue on their lives
• Stigma associated with a disease that doesn't have clearly visible symptoms
• Accessing disability services

The bottom line is that ME/CFS is a real but poorly understood disease that disables people for long periods of time. Increased awareness and research funding is still needed to better diagnose and treat this disorder. While no cure exists now, people with ME/CFS today can work with their doctors to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.