What is chronic fatigue?

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a long-term illness with a wide range of symptoms, the most common of these symptoms being extreme tiredness. CFS is also known as ME, which stands for myalgic encephalomyelitis. Many people refer to the condition as CFS/ME. The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, although there are many theories, for example, viral infections, immune system problems, hormonal imbalances , low cortisol or psychological stress. Testing has found that people with chronic fatigue syndrome can have abnormalities in the brain, particularly in the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. Testing also has found that patients can have abnormalities in the part of the nervous system called the autonomic nervous system, which controls blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature and other vital body functions, for example, many patients with chronic fatigue syndrome have an unusually high heart rate and low blood pressure when they have been standing for a while.

There is no single test to confirm a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. You may need a variety of medical tests to rule out other health problems that have similar symptoms. Treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome focuses on symptom relief.

Symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome

The most prominent symptom of chronic fatigue syndrome is an unexplained feeling of fatigue that is not relieved by rest. This fatigue is severe enough to decrease a person’s activity level at home, work or school by 50% or more, in addition, the diagnosis requires that individuals should have at least four of the following symptoms that also are present for at least six months:

  • Impaired concentration or short-term memory, severe enough to affect routine activities at home, work, school or social functions
  • Sore throat
  • Enlarged lymph nodes (swollen glands) in the neck or underarm area
  • Muscle pain
  • Pain in several joints, with no redness or swelling
  • Headaches that are different in some way: a new type of headache pain, a new pattern of headaches or headaches that are more severe than before
  • Sleep that doesn’t refresh, or not feeling rested on waking
  • An extreme reaction to exertion: feeling sick after exercise or strenuous activity, often not starting until the next day

Online therapy for chronic fatigue

Talking with an experienced online therapist can help you understand the issues associated with CFS and how this impacts your life.  Online therapy can also help you reduce negative thoughts related to CFS.  Your online therapist will also help you manage your mood more effectively. 

No-Obligation discussion

Free initial telephone discussion

If you are looking for online therapy please contact Teresa Lewis for a 15 minute no obligation discussion. Teresa is a BACP Senior Accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist so she will be able to briefly discuss your issues, answer questions and explain more about how online therapy can address chronic fatigue.  At this time you can decide whether you would like to book an appointment. The discussion is conducted without any obligation to book an appointment.

Make an appointment for online therapy

If you would like to speak to one of our therapists regarding online therapy for chronic fatigue please call: 01902 827808.  Alternatively, fill out our online contact form and we will contact you within 24 hours.

 

Medical disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice by a qualified doctor.