Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating condition that has only received acceptance from the mainstream medical community within the last decade. Although some scientific basis for the condition was mentioned in the literature in the early 1950s, it has taken nearly half a century for CFS to be officially recognised and longer for any suitable causes to be identified.

Prior to this, patients were misunderstood and at best banished to beds, couches and hospital wards. They not only had to deal with a debilitating disease and the associated loss of their work, family and social life but also had to deal with the prejudice and disbelief so prevalent within the mainstream medical community.

There have been certainly been enough cases (over 17 million worldwide) for the condition to be accepted and for causes to be investigated over recent times.

Causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

One of the leading causes of CFS is thought to be of viral origin; Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, parvovirus, human herpes virus and the coxsackieviruses have all been implicated and often patients present with a ‘never well since’ picture. Such viral infections create major immune system dysfunctions that perpetuate the chronic fatigue.

Many CFS patients present with altered hormonal responses to stress, depression, muscle aches and pains, headaches, fevers, enlarged lymph nodes and constant sore throats seem to come with the territory. It’s important to rule out other conditions like hypothyroidism, iron deficiency anaemia, cancer, liver disease, eating disorders or obesity when considering a CFS diagnosis. It’s a diagnosis of exclusion remember, so it’s important that you see your doctor for an initial assessment.

The Role of Natural Therapies

Naturopathy has a vital role to play in the treatment of CFS. Laboratory tests for possible infective agents need to be ordered and anti-viral, immune boosting, adaptogenic and adrenal herbs need to be prescribed. Adrenal hormonal profiles assess fatigue status and if necessary, stool tests, food allergy and candida tests can eliminate other potential causes. A naturopath will also be able to conduct an environmental toxin screening to assess and minimise toxic load on the body. Energy production, pathways need to be supported with the appropriate; here the B complex vitamins, high dose vitamin C, magnesium and coenzyme Q10 are important.

Homeopathy can also offer amazing support in cases where there has been a history of viral infection, or where no cause can easily be identified.

Of course, CFS patients need to be prepared to stay off coffee, booze, cigarettes and recreational drugs during the course of treatment and often for months after. Great recoveries require big plans and lots of tiny steps!