8 Things to do if you have CFS

Extensive research has been done to identify the cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) a debilitating illness, but with little success. There are multiple theories, some linking the disease to the Epstein-Barr virus or herpes. Other researchers think it may be related to immune response but in any case, the cause is still unknown.

What doctors do know is that some approaches alleviate symptoms while others make things worse. Here is out list of things to do and things to avoid if you are diagnosed with CFS.

8. Quit smoking

Quit smoking and if possible, avoid smokers. Smoking has been observed to exacerbate the condition. Smoking lowers the body's energy levels while other chemicals appear to worsen the symptoms. Besides, there's nothing good for you about smoking, and there are better ways to manage stress.

7. Skip the caffeine

While caffeine may give you a boost of energy, it also causes exhaustion. Caffeine is a stimulant that gets your adrenaline pumping, but only for a time. The downside is a crash which is made worse when suffering from CFS.  If you must drink caffeine, you should consume only 1 cup per day. 

6. No naptime

For CFS patients, regular sleep is difficult and can prevent normal function. Many report difficulty sleeping at night while having a tendency to nap during the day. However, doctors believe that irregular sleeping habits exacerbate CFS. They recommend that you avoid naps, and set a regular schedule for sleeping and waking. Doing so will train your brain to sleep at night and lead to better daily function.

5. Eat better

Fresh fruits and vegetables are always good advice. For people with CFS, such foods, as well as fish, can help balance blood sugar levels and keep people going throughout the day. Walnuts, salmon and sardines are considered excellent choices. 

4. Exercise

Work with your doctor to develop and exercise program that slowly increases in intensity. Exercise can build general health, and can increase feelings of well-being. It can also help moderate daily fluctuations of energy with CFS. The correct exercise program depends on the patient, so talk to your doctor.

3. Reduce stress

Learn and practice some relaxation techniques. In addition to fighting stress, they can also fight fatigue. Pace yourself throughout the day and maintain a balanced schedule. People with stressful schedules and routines tend to suffer the worst effects of CFS.

2. Interact with others and get help

Don't withdraw from family and friends. Instead, get out and enjoy life. See your doctor and seek out others with CFS for support. Having the care and support of friends and loved ones can greatly reduce stress and motivate a patient to manage CFS as doctors search for a cause and cure.

1. Manage your daily health

Using a service like MyPHRChart can help you to track your daily habits and progress. The records the program can produce will be an invaluable assessment tool that can give your doctor a long-term view at your condition as it develops. Without it, your doctor must usually make an assessment based on a "snapshot" view of your health taken on the day of your visit. Armed with a detailed history however, your odds of maintaining better health and beating any illness increase dramatically.  

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