Sunday, July 18, 2010

Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition of prolonged and severe tiredness or weariness (fatigue) that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other conditions. To be diagnosed with this condition, your tiredness must be severe enough to decrease your ability to participate in ordinary activities by 50 percent.

Symptoms of fatigue can be accompanied by sore throat, low-grade fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle and joint pain, digestive discomfort, emotional distress, depression, insomnia, and loss of concentration. Chronic fatigue can be caused by chronic physical and/or psychological conditions. The frequency of individuals suffering from CFS is thought to be about 11.5 percent of the population.

At Protea we investigate all possible causes. Research shows strong connections between CFS and infectious diseases such as Epstein-Barr virus. Other possible infectious causes include: human herpes virus-6, Inoue–Melnich virus, brucella, borrelia burgdorferi, Giardia lamblia, cytomegalovirus, entero virus, retro virus and many others.

We also know that reduced immune function plays an important role in CFS. Low natural killer cell (NK)activity has been documented. NK cells play an important role in viral immunity. Lowered NK cell activity allows viruses to inhabit the human body for long periods. This type of chronic infection inhibits healthy cell function. Other signs of reduced immune function that may indicate chronic infection includes: reduced lymphocyte response, interferon abnormalities, increased cytokine levels in serum, T-cell ratio abnormalities, multiple chemical sensitivities.

Some non-immune based causes of CFS include:
- Undiagnosed hypothyroidism
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Food allergies or sensitivities
- Oral birth control pills
- Chronic stress
- Anemia
And more.

Our approach includes a detailed history of your case, all past and current lab work, and research. While we are dedicated to using the most natural means to restore you to health, we will do everything in our scope of practice to bring about resolution of your symptoms.
info@protealife.com

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