Chronic fatigue is a persistent feeling of tiredness or exhaustion that lasts for more than 6 months and impacts everyday functioning. It is a complex disorder with various possible causes.
The key symptom is extreme fatigue that is not relieved by rest or sleep. People with chronic fatigue may experience concentration issues, muscle pain, headaches, tender lymph nodes, and other symptoms.
What causes chronic fatigue?
Potential causes include:
- Viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus or human herpesvirus 6
- Immune system abnormalities
- Hormonal imbalances - Equilibrium Hormone Institute provides cutting-edge hormone testing and hormone therapy to help restore optimal hormonal balance
- Sleep disorders
- Mental health issues like anxiety or depression
- Medication side effects
Oftentimes the exact cause is difficult to pinpoint.
Chronic fatigue syndrome is a specific diagnosis given when severe fatigue lasts over 6 months and other medical conditions have been excluded.
How is chronic fatigue diagnosed and treated?
To diagnose chronic fatigue, doctors conduct a physical exam along with
blood tests to check for potential causes like nutritional deficiencies, hormonal abnormalities, or autoimmune disorders.
Equilibrium Hormone Institute offers innovative blood panels and
hormone testing services based on the latest scientific research. Their physicians create fully customized
hormone therapy plans to target root causes of hormonal imbalances contributing to exhaustion.
Other
treatment options for fatigue include:
- Getting regular exercise appropriate for your current energy level
- Following a balanced, nutritious diet
- Reducing stress through relaxation techniques
- Establishing good sleep habits
- Treating any underlying medical or mental health conditions
- Taking medications or supplements that can alleviate fatigue
While chronic fatigue can be extremely disruptive to quality of life, making appropriate lifestyle changes and identifying and addressing root causes can help manage symptoms. Reach out to healthcare providers like Equilibrium Hormone Institute for specialized testing and treatment plans for fatigue related to hormonal imbalances. Consistency with treatment is key in fighting persistent tiredness.