Chronic fatigue syndrome, which is also known as systemic exertion intolerance disease and myalgic encephalomyelitis, is characterized by its symptom of extreme unexplained drowsiness. While no exact cause has been pinpointed yet by researchers, there are several factors being considered as potential instigators of the illness.
Immunity issues that make it more difficult for the body to bounce back after a cold or physical injury, allergies to certain foods and aerial components, hormone and nutrient deficiencies especially those related to the pituitary glands, and viral causes have all been considered. To truly understand the disorder, let us take a look at the 7 warning signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome.
1. Pain in Muscles and Joints
If you feel achy muscles and joints throughout the day with no explanation as to why the pain is occurring, you should see a physician. Patients with CFS often report feeling sensitive and sore, similar to the way you might feel following a rigorous workout, except that there has been no strenuous physical exercise to explain why you feel that way.
2. Poor Sleep Habits
Despite the constant feeling of sleepiness, those who suffer from CFS often suffer from insomnia, or the inability to get a good full night of rest. Individuals with the disorder often describe waking up several times throughout the night, or having a light fitful sleep which isn't as relaxing as it ought to be.
3. Exhaustion Following Exercise
When patients with CFS do exercise, physically or mentally, the results can be very negative. Rather than feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and energetic after a workout, like many do when adrenaline kicks in, those with CFS feel so exhausted. Many are unable to function and perform regular daily tasks following overexertion.
4. Swollen Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes are the sure sign of a common cold, but they can also be a sign of CFS. This could be due to allergens or an infection in the body causing the drowsiness and inflammation in the lymphatic system.
5. Inability to Focus
It's normally to find it difficult to focus when you're sleepy, but imagine not being able to focus during the day when trying to do your job. People with chronic fatigue syndrome often describe that they feel as if their brain is in a fog
6. Sore Throat
Just as the lymph nodes formed due to inflammation in the cells, a sore throat can be the sign of your body fighting off a virus, or a visit from some type of allergen.
7. Fatigue
Finally, and the most commonly known of the 7 warning signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome is the ongoing sensation of being tired. This isn't the mid-afternoon caffeine crash that most Americans face but an all-day physical slump, which causes patients to feel like they could nap just about any time of the day. No matter what time chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers go to bed at night, they will usually find it tough to get through each day.
If you have experienced any of the above 7 warning signs and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome, be sure to bring it to your doctor's attention. Current treatment for the condition include cognitive behavioral therapy and exclusion diets. Rintatolimod, a medication which has yet to receive approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration, is also being studied as a potential treatment option.