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Over the years, I have personally known several women diagnosed with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Although the two are not the same disease, they often have similar symptoms.
As defined by Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, CFS is a disorder of unknown cause characterized by persistent profound fatigue usually accompanied by other symptoms unrelated to any preexisting medical condition.
Unfortunately, many people do not understand the seriousness of the condition, and assume people inflicted with CFS are lazy or faking their illness to get attention. I can guarantee from those I know personally that is not the case.
CFS disrupts lives, interferes with relationships, and sometimes causes suffers to lose their job. The symptoms can be so severe that someone can struggle with getting out of bed.
Not only does CFS cause extreme fatigue, but other symptoms including:
- Lack of concentration or memory loss
- Sore throat
- Flu-like symptoms
- Swollen lymph glands
- Muscle and joint pain
- Unrefreshed sleep
- Changing or new type of headache
There are a number of other symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome along with the above primary symptoms including dry mouth and eyes, abdominal and chest pain, chronic cough, diarrhea, impaired circulation, painful menstrual symptoms, and more.
It is believed that CFS affects over one million people in the United States alone. Although research has not yet provided a cause for CFS and the condition is considered incurable, there are treatment options available.
If you believe you have chronic fatigue syndrome, see your health care provider as soon as possible. Keep a list of your symptoms so that you can discuss their severity and frequency.
Some medical providers use drugs while others suggest alternative options such as yoga, nutritional changes or supplements, acupuncture or homeopathic remedies. Sometimes help can also come from counseling or support groups, especially if you can discuss your condition with those who understand what you are going through.
One woman I knew so strongly believed in the power of prayer that she sought prayer every chance she got. She stopped taking all medication, and over time her symptoms went away and she was considered healed.
You can find further information from a variety of off and online resources. Here is one link – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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