Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that may worsen with physical or mental activity, but doesn't improve with rest. Although there are many theories about what causes this condition — ranging from viral infections to psychological stress — in most cases the cause is still unknown. Because its symptoms are difficult to measure, CFS wasn't widely accepted as a real medical condition for several years. Today, however, doctors and researchers agree that this chronic condition should be taken seriously. Although an underlying cause often isn't found, effective treatments for the signs and symptoms of CFS are available. Many people recover from chronic fatigue syndrome over time. People with chronic fatigue syndrome may experience a variety of signs and symptoms that come and go frequently with no identifiable pattern.
While Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can certainly impede a person's activities, it can also provide an important wake up call. Once a patient is diagnosed with CFS, it is important to seek treatment and be aware of one's limits. Research has indicated that 77% of CFS sufferers have turned to complementary medicine instead of, or in conjunction with Western medicine.
Typical TCM Patterns for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
1.Spleen Qi and Yang Deficiency: occurs over a long-time, with fatigue for no clear reason, mental listlessness, poor appetite, bloated stomach, loose stools or diarrhea, cold extremities.
2.Liver Qi Stagnation and/or Liver, Spleen, Stomach Disharmony: physical and mental fatigue, headaches, depression, sighing, chest tightness and hypochondriac distension, alternating loose stools and constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, bitter taste in the mouth.
3.Heart Blood and/or Yin Deficiency: fatigue, palpitations, irritability, disorientation, forgetfulness, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, hot flashes, night sweats, pale face.
4.Kidney Qi and Yang Deficiency: fatigue, soreness or pain of the low back, weakness in the knees, cold sensation all over body, morning diarrhea, frequent urination, shortness of breath that worsens with movement. Men will have impotence; women will have irregular menses.
5.Phlegm Obstruction and Dampness Retention: fatigue, listlessness, sleepiness, plum-pit qi, chest tightness, puffy face and legs, and overweight or heavy sensation of the body.
6.Heat Toxicity: fatigue, whole body aches, sore and tender muscles and joints, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes around the neck, slight fever, and hot flashes.
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese medicine, in particular, can address many of the problems associated with CFS, such as body aches, insomnia, and stress levels. Maystar Natural HealthCare Center will provide patients with a specialized diagnosis and highly individualized treatment plan. Acupuncture has been known to be especially effective in anxiety and stress treatment, and Asian body therapy can relax muscles, reduce stress, and improve sleep patterns.