Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment
There is no cure for CFS, but many treatments are available to help relieve the
symptoms. Treatments usually are individualized to each person's particular symptoms and
needs. The first treatment most doctors recommend is a combination of rest, exercise, and
a balanced diet. Prioritizing activities, avoiding overexertion, and resting when needed
are key to maintaining existing energy reserves. A program of moderate exercise helps to
keep patients from losing physical conditioning, but too much exercise can worsen fatigue
and other CFS symptoms. Counseling and stress reduction techniques also may help some
people with CFS.
Many medications, nutritional supplements, and herbal preparations have been used to
treat CFS. While many of these are unproven, others seem to provide some people with
relief. People with CFS should discuss their treatment plan with their doctors, and
carefully weigh the benefits and risks of each therapy before making a decision.
Drugs us as a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treatment
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, may be
used to relieve pain and reduce fever. Another medication that is prescribed to relieve
pain and muscle spasms is cyclobenzaprine (sold as Flexeril).
Many doctors prescribe low dosages of antidepressants for their sedative effects and to
relieve symptoms of depression. Antianxiety drugs, such as benzodiazepines or buspirone
may be prescribed for excessive anxiety that has lasted for at least six months.
Other medications that have been tested or are being tested for treatment of CFS are:
- Fludrocortisone (Florinef), a synthetic steroid, which is currently being tested for
treatment of people with CFS. It causes the body to retain salt, thereby increasing blood
pressure. It has helped some people with CFS who have neurally mediated hypotension.
- Beta-adrenergic blocking drugs, often prescribed for high blood pressure. Such drugs,
including atenolol (Tenoretic, Tenormin) and propranolol (Inderal), are sometimes
prescribed for neurally mediated hypotension.
- Gamma globulin, which contains human antibodies to a variety of organisms that cause
infection. It has been used experimentally to boost immune function in people with CFS.
- Ampligen, a drug which stimulates the immune system and has antiviral activity. In one
small study, ampligen improved mental function in people with CFS.
Treatment of Chronic Fatigue
Syndrome with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is often prescribed to help
chronically ill patients cope with illness and develop behaviors and
strategies that help alleviate symptoms. It has been successful in helping
patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer, and recent
studies indicate that CBT can be useful in treating some CFS patients.
CBT is frequently prescribed as part of therapeutic process; it help
patients learn to manage activity levels, stress and symptoms. Optimally,
CBT can help you better adapt to the impact of CFS and improve your level of
function and quality of life.
Alternative treatment used for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
A variety of nutritional supplements are used for treatment of CFS. Among these are
vitamin C, vitamin B12, vitamin A, vitamin E, and various dietary minerals.
These supplements may help improve immune and mental functions. Several herbs have been
shown to improve immune function and have other beneficial effects. Some that are used for
CFS are astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), echinacea (Echinacea spp.),
garlic (Allium sativum), ginseng (Panax ginseng), gingko (Gingko biloba),
evening primrose oil (Oenothera biennis), shiitake mushroom extract (Lentinus
edodes), borage seed oil , and quercetin.
Many people have enhanced their healing process for CFS with the use of a treatment
program inclusive of one or more alternative therapies. Stress reduction techniques such
as biofeedback, meditation, acupuncture, and yoga may help people with sleep disturbances
relax and get more rest. They also help some people reduce depression and anxiety caused
by CFS. |
