Is There Treatment for Chronic Fatigue? 

If chronic fatigue is a constant issue in your life, this article will help you understand what fatigue actually is. The term ‘fatigue’ may sound benign to some people but for those who suffer from chronic fatigue or burnout, fatigue can have debilitating effects on their day-to-day lives. In this article we’ll explore what causes fatigue and the treatments that are available.

What is Chronic Fatigue?

Fatigue is as a general lack of energy or an exhaustion that sets in after a shorter-than normal period. There are many different types of fatigue and anything from anemia to depression could cause fatigue. Chronic fatigue is actually not one specific type but rather refers to the consistent depletion of energy, moodiness, trouble concentrating and feelings of fatigue that last for more than six months.

Mayo Clinic explains that chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that lasts for at least six months and that can’t be fully explained by an underlying medical condition. The fatigue worsens with physical or mental activity, but doesn’t improve with rest.

What Causes Chronic Fatigue?

There are many different conditions and illnesses that can cause fatigue including: thyroid disease, autoimmune diseases like lupus or multiple sclerosis (MS), fibromyalgia, vitamin deficiencies such as anemia, sleep disorders like insomnia and narcolepsy, depression and anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and post-viral fatigue. Your weakness and fatigue could also be linked to:

• Infections like Lyme disease and AIDS/HIV
• Thyroid issues
• Electrolyte imbalances and dehydration
• Nutrient deficiencies like anemia
• Cold or flu
• Excessive work or stress combined with a lack of relaxation
• Heart problems
• Kidney disease
• Depression and other mental health conditions
• Abuse of over the counter, prescription, or illegal drugs

Signs and Symptoms

Fatigue can appear as a singular symptom if you are simply having a hard time sleeping or stressed out by work. However, CFS can come with symptoms like:

• Memory loss or mental fogginess
• Chronic pain in the joints or diffuse aching throughout the body
• Depression and anxiety
• Increased fatigue and pain during or after exertion
• A lack of restfulness regardless of the amount of sleep
• Headaches or migraines

Treatment Options

If fatigue has become a consistent issue in your life, there are some steps that can help with fatigue management including: eating healthy foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains; getting regular exercise (but not too much); staying hydrated; limiting or quitting alcohol, caffeine and tobacco products; practicing good sleep hygiene including going to bed at the same time every night and sleeping in a cool, dark room without any electronics near your pillow.

Unfortunately, there is no cure-all for CFS that will work for everyone. If you are patient and willing to try a variety of treatments, you are sure to find something that helps you enjoy more energy. Here at Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center in Austin, we can provide you with treatments like:

• Testing for food allergies or environmental sensitivities that can cause fatigue
• Supplementation and diet plans to fix nutrient deficiencies
• Exercises and stretching to release muscle tension and pain that drains your energy
• Adjustments and spinal care from the chiropractor

The CDC explains that those with CFS should work together with their healthcare providers to determine which symptom causes the most problems and treat that first. From there, we can work to attack your other symptoms, too. 

Why You Should Seek Treatment  for Chronic Fatigue

Most fatigue can be treated with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. However, CFS is not something that needs to be managed properly in order for you to live your life as normally as possible.  If fatigue is the reason you are missing work or struggling with relationships, it needs to be managed.

Restore Healthy Energy Levels And Reduce Fatigue

If strenuous exercise or the stresses of work are making it hard for you to feel relaxed and rested, consider seeking treatment even when your fatigue isn’t chronic.

Something as simple as a relaxing massage could restore your energy after an illness or period of depression wipes you out. Keep up with the pace of your everyday life by treating your chronic fatigue, pain, and insomnia symptoms as soon as they appear.

Make an Appointment with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center Today

If fatigue is draining your quality of life, it’s time to find the solution. Contact Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center today for a consultation right here in Austin. Together, we can help restore your energy so you feel better than ever again. Call us today: (512) 806-0015.