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Treatment
Treating chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome
(CFIDS)
presents a significant challenge for people with CFIDS and their physicians. As yet, there is no known
cause, cure or universal treatment for CFIDS. Until a treatment is developed which will improve all the
symptoms of CFIDS, or correct the underlying cause, therapy is based upon the individual's presenting
symptoms.
Medical Treatments
Medications
that
provide symptom relief are frequently the first line of treatment chosen by primary care providers for
the person with CFIDS. These include medications for pain; sleep disturbances; digestive problems such
as nausea; flu-like symptoms and, if present, depression and anxiety. Medications may be supplemented
by supportive
therapies.
Supportive
Treatments
Therapies that help people to relax and improve coping skills fall into this category and may
include counseling for emotional and mental health, cognitive behavioral therapy, sleep management therapy
and massage.
Alternative
Treatment
Many persons find complementary therapies such as acupuncture, tai chi and alternative food and
herbal supplements to be helpful. Please note that adding food and herbal supplements to your therapy
regimen needs to be done with care and with your physician's and pharmacist's knowledge to prevent
undesirable side effects.
Lifestyle
Alterations
Altered digestion, food intolerances, decreased energy, fatigue, cognitive problems and sleeplessness
create the need for revisions in daily living routines. These can include changes in diet; exercise modifications;
alterations in activities of daily living according to one's energy level; and sleep/rest management.
All may require the assistance of professional clinicians, such as a dietitian, physical and/or occupational
therapist, mental health professional and sleep therapist.
Other Treatment Options
For people who
have been
diagnosed with an
autonomic nervous system abnormality such as orthostatic intolerance, fluid and
salt loading may be a treatment of choice. Surgery for Chiari
Malformation, a defect in the area where the lower brain/spinal cord meet, is a treatment
option for persons who have been found to have this condition.
Summary
Treatment may incorporate any,
or all, of the
above categories as people with CFIDS seek to improve their condition. The person with CFIDS can experience
much frustration when attempting to secure treatment. Keeping an open mind and speaking candidly with
a health care provider is important to any treatment plan.
Articles of Interest
Related
Information
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