New Study Identifies the Cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome can put a victim’s life on hold, ending careers and the normal functioning of family and social life. A study published in July 2017 in The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences finds that chronic fatigue syndrome is linked to “variations in 17 immune-system signaling proteins, or cytokines.”

The blood level cytokine concentration correlates with the condition’s severity, according to researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine. Patients with lower cytokine levels tended to have milder forms of the disease, while those with high levels suffered the greatest incapacity.

The study confirms that inflammation is a major cause of this devastating disease, which primarily affects women. Immune system imbalance also plays a role. An estimated one million people in the United States alone are afflicted.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Many people develop chronic fatigue after an infection or traumatic or stressful life event. For too long, many doctors did not take the syndrome seriously, telling patients their physical issues “were all in their head.“ Chronic fatigue is just one aspect of the syndrome. Others include:

  • Memory loss
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Headaches
  • Enlarged lymph nodes, especially in the armpits or neck
  • Sore throat

Such symptoms are common to various illnesses, so it is crucial to go to a doctor and receive a definite diagnosis as soon as possible.

Thorough Testing

The study gives doctors additional tools for testing patients suspected of having chronic fatigue syndrome. Although more sophisticated blood testing is helpful, it is imperative that patients relay the onset of their initial symptoms to a doctor.

For example, many patients feel they never truly recovered from a high fever or similar severe infection, or they recall coming ill while undergoing a specific life experience.  All patients go over their complete medical history and undergo thorough testing to help improve their chronic fatigue issues.

Hormonal Imbalances and Chronic Fatigue

Some patients may develop chronic fatigue syndrome because of hormonal imbalances. It is possible that custom-tailored bioidentical hormone replacement therapy may relieve symptoms and give such patients a new lease on life.

Many patients experience better sleep and lose the “brain fog” associated with chronic fatigue syndrome after starting a bioidentical hormone replacement therapy regimen.

Along with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, the doctor may devise a diet and exercise program designed to boost the patient’s health.

Contact Dr. Jacobson Today

If you suspect have been diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, or suspect you suffer from it, call Dr. Edward Jacobson’s office today and arrange a consultation.