Chronic fatigue syndrome is exhaustion that doesn’t result from overexertion and is not alleviated by rest or medications. Although described by conventional medicine as a new disease, references to similar conditions date back to the 1860s, and it has been known by many other names, including chronic EBV syndrome (Epstein-Barr virus), immune dysfunction syndrome, and post-infectious myasthenia syndrome. CFS can last several years, during which time the symptoms can increase and decrease. Although symptom don’t seem to worsen over time, CFS can cause significant disability and interfere with most activities of daily living.

Common Symptoms

• Mild fever
• Painful lymph nodes
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle pain
• Prolonged fatigue after exercise
• Migrating joint pain
• Headaches
• Depression
• Sleep disturbance
• Recurrent sore throat
• Forgetfulness
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating

What You Need to Know

You may have chronic fatigue, but not Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. There are numerous causes of chronic fatigue besides CFS. For example:

• Diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic inflammation, lupus, chronic pain, cancer, liver disease, multiple sclerosis.
• Drugs such as high-blood-pressure medications, anti-inflammatory agents, oral contraceptives, antihistamines, steroids, tranquilizers, and sleep medications.
• Emotional stress and depression.

These causes can be treated and corrected, so it is very important to undergo an extensive history,examination and testing to rule them out.

General Recommendations

Exercise: Exercise can produce substantial improvement in fatigue and physical functioning. In fact, prolonged rest may actually be harmful in CFS. All three forms of exercise (stretching, aerobic, and resistance) are recommended for the best results. I know-it’s hard to be motivated to exercise when you feel fatigued all the time, but you’ll notice almost immediate benefits.

Qigong: Qigong is very effective for both stimulating the immune system and increasing energy. Although you may feel too tired to practice Qigong, you will soon discover that it does increase your energy, so the effort is well worth the results. You can do Qigongmn even when you’re sitting or lying down.

Your Balanced Healing Action Plan for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Step 1: Take Appropriate Chinese Herbal Remedies

I start with Chinese herbal formulas because they are the most helpful in increasing energy, rebalancing the body, and strengthening the immune system. Some of the formulas that are commonly used include Gan Coo (Licorice), Cordyceps, Dong Chong Xia Cao, or Gui Pi Tang. Herbal treatments must be based on accurate diagnosis from a qualified practitioner, who will determine which formula(s) will be best for you. You’ll notice improvement within three weeks (sometimes sooner), but you may need to take the herbs for a longer period, depending on your condition(s).

Step 2: Undergo Acupuncture

I also recommend acupuncture along with the Chinese herbals. Acupuncture is effective for strengthening the immune system and increasing energy. Principal points are usually found in many areas of the body and are used in various combinations. Moxibustion (burning a specific herb to stimulate acupuncture points) can also be done to increase energy, and you can be taught to do it at home. Always seek evaluation and treatment from a practitioner certified in acupuncture. You should feel improvement within six treatments, but you might need additional sessions to get the maximum benefit.

Step 3: Take Prescription Medications for Pain and Other Symptoms of CFS

If the previous steps don’t help your pain, various prescription medications can help reduce it and other symptoms of CFS. They include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Naprosyn, Daypro, Feldene, Orudis, Mobic, and others) for muscle or joint aches and low-grade fever, and SSRI antidepressants (such as Prozac) to promote sleep, help depression, and relieve muscle pain. Consult your doctor for guidance.

Step 4: Take Coenzyme Q-10, Magnesium, and NADH

If you still have low energy, take Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ10) (100mg per day) and magnesium (200mg to 300mg three times daily), which can help relieve chronic fatigue symptoms in some patients by increasing the production of energy molecules in the body’s cells. If you still have fatigue, then add NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), 10mg to 15mg daily, which increases energy molecules in the body.

Step 5: Try the Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Treatment (NAET)

If you haven’t improved with the previous steps, food allergies may be playing a part in your chronic fatigue. I recommend using the Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Treatment (NAET), which combines acupuncture, kinesiology, chiropractic, herbs, and nutrition to desensitize you to foods to which you are allergic. It may take several months to be effective, depending on how many allergens are sensitizing you.

Step 6: Take an Appropriate Homeopathic Remedy

If you still have fatigue, I next recommend trying homeopathy, which has been reported to help some people reverse CFS. There are several formulas, so consult a qualified horneopathist for guidance on which remedies will be most beneficial and for proper dosages, You should experience benefits within one to two weeks.

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