What Are the Conventional Treatments For Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

While there is no specific cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, a debilitating disease characterized by extreme exhaustion, improvement is possible. Although very little is known about this disease, which is also known as Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome, there are some treatments that are showing to be fairly effective in the management of the symptoms. Since the exact cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not yet known, most of the conventional medical treatment is geared towards this concept of symptom control.

For managing the pain associated with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, over the counter pain medication is typically sufficient. There are a few severe cases that may require stronger pain relieving medication; however, this is quite rare. Since many patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome also suffer from orthostatic intolerance (becoming dizzy or fainting when standing) some doctors recommend increasing water intake and levels of salt to help retain more fluid. However, this can be tricky for patients with heart problems so it is important to work closely with a physician when choosing this, or any form of treatment.

Some studies on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome have indicated that low levels of serotonin and dopamine , which are neurotransmitters, may be one of the causes for a lower pain threshold, a disruption in sleep patterns, and the depression usually found in most patients. So some drugs such as Zoloft or Paxil maybe utilized in therapy for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome since these drugs can help increase those levels.

Although not wide spread, after testing, doctors have discovered that some patients have a narrowing in the spot where the spinal cord attaches to the brain. This can be detected by an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and in some cases may be corrected by surgery.

Problems with immune deficiencies also seem to accompany Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, in fact some believe it is one of the causes of the disease. For this reason, doctors may make use of several types of drugs that can boost the immune system and help to regulate it. Other medications may also be used for patients with infections or digestive problems.

As more and more is becoming known about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, many are hopeful that more effective treatments will be made available to patients.