Updated: 1 day ago
Do you struggle getting up in the morning? Do you crave sugar, coffee or other stimulants throughout the day? Are you exhausted towards the end of the day, yet are unable to sleep well at night? If the answers to any of the question is “yes” then you may be suffering from chronic fatigue.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is a complex condition that is mainly characterized by the feeling of extreme fatigue without any underlying medical conditions. This fatigue can get worse with mental or physical activity but doesn’t get better with rest or sleep. It is also called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) or Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease (SEID). Adrenal fatigue is becoming an important cause of undiagnosed chronic fatigue.
Chronic Fatigue Causes
Chronic fatigue causes are relatively unknown, but there are many theories about the root cause. These theories range all the way from psychological stress to viral infections, but most experts believe that the main cause can be a combination of different factors. People with chronic fatigue may seem hypersensitive to normal activity and exercise as well. Some theories suggest that some people may be predisposed to the disorder which is then triggered by one or more of the following:
Viral Infections: Some people are more prone to developing chronic fatigue after going through a viral infection. Researchers have found that some viruses might trigger CFS such as mouse leukemia, human herpes virus 6, and Epstein-Barr virus.
Immune System Issues: People who suffer from chronic fatigue have been known to have impaired immune systems.
Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal levels of hormones produced by the pituitary gland, the adrenal gland, and the hypothalamus can cause chronic fatigue symptoms.
Adrenal Fatigue: Impaired ability of adrenal glands to produce adequate amounts of cortisol hormone. Patients typically tend to crave stimulants such as coffee, sugar, chocolate etc.
None of these chronic fatigue causes and triggers are conclusive, and there may be a number of different or combined factors that result in chronic fatigue.