Chronic fatigue immune deficiency syndrome is also referred to as chronic fatigue syndrome, myalgic encephalomyelitis, post-viral fatigue syndrome, and chronic fatigue dysfunctional syndrome. It is characterized by persistent and strong debilitating fatigue, joint aches, depression, headaches, irregular beating of the heart, dizziness, faintness, abnormal sweating, high fever, problems with concentration, loss of memory, and unrefreshing sleep among other symptoms.
These symptoms manifest themselves in a previously active and healthy person. It is a heterogeneous disorder which affects immunologic, hormonal, and neurologic systems in the body. Those between the ages of 39 to 50 years are the ones at high risk of suffering from this condition, which is more common with women than men. However, the central cause of this condition is still unclear despite much research. Due to this, there is no diagnostic test for this condition. Majority of cases start abruptly, while others begin subsequent to months of severe stress.
Chronic fatigue immunodeficiency syndrome is diagnosed mainly by exclusion of other disorders. This illness is believed to be associated with low blood sugar levels in the body, various yeast infections such as candidiasis and other viral infections, lack of iron in the blood, stress and depression, environmental allergies, a positive Romberg test, and low oral temperatures below 97 degrees.
Some of the laboratory tests usually carried out by doctors when attempting a diagnosis include a complete blood count with differential, urinalysis, antinuclear antibodies and rheumatoid factor, adrenal tests, thyroid tests, immune system tests, viral infection tests, toxins analysis, and assessments of oxidative stress. Treatment of this condition varies from one individual to the other due to the varying symptoms. Typically, alternative and conventional treatments such as antidepressants, pain relievers, and non-toxic therapies are used.
There are also other ways of treating chronic fatigue immune deficiency syndrome:
- cognitive behavioral therapy is a psychological therapy which helps patients understand their symptoms and develop a strategy towards improving their condition
- physical exercises are also recommended as they improve the overall functioning of the patient’s body
- eating a healthy, nutritious, balanced diet that is rich in vitamins has been proven to be helpful in treating this disease. Consume proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamin-rich foods such as fish, whole grains, and fruits. This helps boost the body’s immune system, builds and repairs the worn out tissues in the body, and provides energy for the normal functioning of the body
- drink plenty of water (at least two liters a day). This will help flush out toxins which build in the body
- get at least eight hours a day of rest
- you can also try nutrient supplements
- support groups are beneficial to the long-term management of the condition
Prevention is better than trying to find a cure. Therefore it is very essential to avoid all possible causes of chronic fatigue immune deficiency syndrome.