Perpetually Tired? You May Have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and These 5 Tips Can Help Overcome Lethargy

Feeling tired all the time is not a healthy signs. While it could be because of several reasons, chronic fatigue syndrome is something to be more aware about.

Do you always feel tired no despite all the efforts made to be otherwise? This may be a sign of chronic fatigue syndrome. It is a disorder characterised prolonged period of extreme fatigue or tiredness. Managing sudden increases in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) symptoms, also known as flare-ups, requires a multifaceted approach that is directed at reducing symptom severity and improving overall well-being. Speaking with India.com, Dr. Vivek Barun, Consultant, Neurology & Epilepsy at Artemis Hospital Gurugram explained five strategies for coping with flare-ups.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome:  5 Strategies to Get Relief

1. Rest and Pacing: During flare-ups, it’s important to prioritise rest and pacing to conserve energy and prevent symptom exacerbation. This involves listening to your body’s signals and avoiding overexertion. Having structured rest periods throughout the day and breaking tasks into manageable segments can help conserve energy and minimise symptom flare-ups. By pacing activities and balancing periods of rest with periods of activity, people with CFS can manage their symptoms in a better way during flare-ups and prevent further depletion of energy reserves.
2. Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate CFS symptoms and trigger flare-ups. Implementing stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help in reducing stress levels and alleviate symptom severity during flare-ups. Furthermore, engaging in activities that promote relaxation and emotional well-being, like gentle yoga, listening to calming music, or spending time in nature, can help in mitigating the impact of stress on CFS symptoms.
3. Symptom Tracking and Self-Care: Keeping track of symptom patterns and triggers can help people with CFS in having a better understanding of their condition and identify strategies for managing flare-ups. By maintaining a symptom diary and tracking factors like activity levels, sleep quality, dietary intake, and stress levels, people can identify patterns and make informed adjustments to their self-care routines. This may involve prioritising self-care activities like adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, hydration, and gentle exercise tailored to individual capabilities.
4. Support Network: Building a strong support network of family, friends, healthcare professionals, and fellow CFS patients can provide the much needed emotional support and practical assistance during flare-ups. Connecting with people who understand the challenges of living with CFS can offer validation, encouragement, and coping strategies for managing flare-ups. Furthermore, seeking support from healthcare professionals experienced in treating CFS can help people access appropriate medical care, symptom management strategies, and resources for coping with flare-ups.
5. Adaptive Strategies: During flare-ups, it may be required to adapt daily routines and activities to accommodate fluctuating symptom severity. This may involve modifying work or school schedules, delegating tasks, using assistive devices or mobility aids, and seeking accommodations or adjustments to reduce physical and cognitive exertion. By adopting adaptive strategies and making necessary accommodations, people with CFS can minimise the impact of flare-ups on daily functioning and maintain a sense of control over their condition.