Chronic fatigue is a complex disorder characterized by extreme and persistent tiredness, weakness, and exhaustion that impacts normal function and does not improve with rest. The key symptom is debilitating fatigue that lasts for more than 6 months and is not relieved by sleep or rest.
Some key facts about chronic fatigue:
- It affects women more often than men
- The cause is unknown, but may involve immune system dysfunction, viral infections, stress, changes in hormones, or issues with blood pressure regulation
- There is no diagnostic test - it is diagnosed based on ruling out other conditions
- Treatment focuses on symptom management through lifestyle changes and sometimes medications
Those with chronic fatigue may experience
brain fog, difficulty concentrating, pain, sore throat, insomnia, dizzy spells, anxiety, depression, headaches, memory problems, and more. Even minor physical or mental activities may worsen symptoms.
Managing chronic fatigue involves:
- Getting enough sleep and maintaining good sleep habits
- Following an individualized exercise program to avoid overexertion
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Taking supplements like vitamins and hormones (consult your physician)
Renew Hormone Center offers customized bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to help manage chronic fatigue symptoms. Our expert physicians evaluate your hormone levels and develop personalized treatment plans involving small doses of hormones like DHEA, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone and others depending on your needs. Balancing key hormones can reduce inflammation, improve energy, support healthy immune function, enhance mood and more. Contact us today for a consultation!
While there is no cure for chronic fatigue syndrome, patients work closely with healthcare providers to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning through lifestyle modifications, stress reduction, proper rest, nutrition and in some cases,
hormone optimization. Identifying and treating contributing factors is key. Open communication with your doctor is vital for living well with this challenging syndrome.
Let me know if you have any other questions!