Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is characterized by debilitating fatigue and several associated physical, constitutional and neuropsychological complaints. The CDC Criteria for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is defined by the presence of:

  1. Clinically evaluated, unexplained, persistent or relapsing fatigue that is of new or definite onset; is not the result of ongoing exertion; is not alleviated by rest; and results in substantial reduction of previous levels of occupational, educational, social, or personal activities: and
  2. Four or more of the following symptoms that persist or recur during six or more consecutive months of illness and that do not predate the fatigue:
  • Self-reported impairment in short term memory or concentration
  • Sore throat
  • Tender cervical or axillary nodes
  • Muscle pain
  • Multijoint pain without redness or swelling
  • Headaches of a new pattern or severity
  • Unrefreshed sleep
  • Postexertional malaise lasting greater than or equal to 24 hours

Although Chronic Fatigue Syndrome may have as its underlying cause a variety of etiologies it is often poorly defined by standard medical evaluations. It is however extremely important that an appropriate medical evaluation occur on all patients who experience these symptoms. After a proper medical evaluation by an individuals primary care physician and/or specialist Healing Choices is able to offer additional treatment and rehabilitation options. This can best be accomplished by a physician directed interdisciplinary approach which includes a review of the diagnostic workup with any additional recommendations and specialty consults, physical therapy, lifestyle and nutritional options, medication review, cognitive behavioral approaches and a variety of non drug based therapies such as Acupuncture to assist with the healing process.