Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment

No specific treatment has been found for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Since the cause of CFS is unknown, doctors recommend treatments relieve symptoms with the goal being to restore some of the patient’s former function and quality of life. Decisions regarding treating CFS should be made after consulting your health care provider. Your doctor will help develop a treatment plan most suitable for you based on your overall condition and specific symptoms. This program can be modified based on your condition as it changes.

Lifestyle Treatments

Lifestyle changes are necessary for patients with CFS. It is important to maintain an appropriate level of physical activity. Your doctor will encourage a manageable routine carefully paced to avoid increasing fatigue. Light exercise and stretching is also recommended. A health care provider or physical therapist should monitor any exercise routines, and these activities can be increased gradually as your condition improves. You will also be encouraged to maintain a healthy diet including dark-colored vegetables and fruit, fiber rich foods and low in saturated fats.

Medications

Doctors prescribe medications for chronic fatigue syndrome to relieve specific symptoms the patient is experiencing. Medication should only be used when other possible causes for the symptoms have been ruled out. Common medications include mild pain relievers, antidepressants (to improve sleep or treat depression), and stimulants (used to treat lethargy or daytime sleepiness). Most patients experience side effects with these medicines, so it is important to discuss drug treatments with your doctor including possible side effects.

Other Treatments

People have tried alternative therapies with varying degrees of success. A number of dietary and herbal products may help improve symptoms of CFS but should not be used to replace a doctor’s recommended therapy. Along with vitamins, some herbal supplements that can benefit patients with CFS include comfrey, ginseng, Ginkgo biloba, garlic, primrose oil, Echinacea and St. John’s Wort as well as many others. These treatments can also have side effects, and others may interact with your prescription medications. Consult your health care provider before using alternative treatments. Many patients have also reported success with therapies such as chiropractic therapy, acupuncture, and message therapy. These treatments can be helpful when combined with a doctor’s recommended exercise program.