Understanding Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) & Fibromyalgia: Symptoms & Management

Chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, and fibromyalgia syndrome can be disabling diseases. Medicines are available through a physician to treat the symptoms of these ailments. A healthy diet, counseling and alternative medicines can help sufferers of chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia lead a more normal life.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are extreme mental and physical fatigue. Fibromyalgia symptoms include widespread pain and muscle weakness. Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia often go hand in hand.

Treatment

• Anti-depressants can be prescribed to treat depression associated with chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Low-dose pain medications and vitamin supplements are often taken to combat symptoms. Acupuncture, massage therapy and meditation can also be used.

Diet

• A well-balanced diet of fruits, grains, vegetables and proteins is beneficial. An organic diet, consisting of foods that contain no preservatives or additives, or a high protein diet can help some sufferers.

Support Groups

• Support groups for sufferers of both of these conditions can be helpful in dealing with pressures associated with them.

Counseling

• Counseling can be helpful in relieving stress and will encourage coping skills.