Breaking Free.(chronic fatigue syndrome)

Living with chronic fatigue doesn't have to be a life sentence

Find relief with these top supplements

It has been called "yuppie flu," "post-viral fatigue syndrome," "myalgic encephalomyelitis" and "Tapanui flu." Now the debilitating malady that these monikers described over a decade ago has one well-known name--chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS.

By giving CFS a name in 1988, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) acknowledged that it is a valid affliction and not just "all in one's head," as some ,people originally thought. But many aspects of the multi-symptom condition first observed in the mid-'80s still remain a mystery. There seem to be many causes and symptoms, but no true "cure" in sight. There is hope, though. A growing body of research has shed some light on the pathology of CFS, as well as discovering treatments, albeit limited ones, to at least alleviate its symptoms. Various nutritional supplements and herbs have been shown to help sufferers of CFS, too. But first things first-let's take a look at what we're up against.

What is CFS?

CFS is much more than just being wiped out for a day or two. Many CFS sufferers can barely get out of bed and become exhausted after limited physical activity. Accompanied by flu-like symptoms, the condition often interferes with their careers, relationships and lifestyles as a whole. Pain associated with CFS further limits the activity of those with the illness, many of whom also have fibromyalgia (a condition characterized by widespread bodily pain with pain in a majority of tender point sites). It can affect the neurological, immunological, hormonal, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems of the body.

Although there is no test specifically for CFS, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) define CFS by the following criteria. One is "the new onset of persistent unexplained fatigue that isn't the result of ongoing exertion and isn't alleviated by rest." To be diagnosed as CFS, this fatigue must lead to a reduction in previous work, social, study and personal activities and it must not be due to any other medical condition.