Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a chronic condition that leads to extreme exhaustion that can not be corrected through sufficient rest.  Other symptoms include widespread pain in the body, cognitive difficulties (mental confusion, memory issues, focus problems, etc.), and reduced immune system function.

We’re going to take a look at 12 things that may trigger a flare-up of chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms. Then we will consider a natural therapy that is producing positive results for many and bringing hope to those battling this chronic condition.

#1 Physical Exertion

Notice the use of the word exertion rather than overexertion.  For a chronic fatigue syndrome sufferer, it doesn’t take a whole lot of physical activity to set off the exhaustion. While daily exercise is still important, you’re not going to be doing CrossFit and feel good the next day (or week for that matter). Stretching is one of the best ways to get exercise and keep your joints limber.

#2 Physical Trauma

An accident or injury can lead to the onset of chronic fatigue syndrome. It can also cause a flare-up of symptoms. Head and neck injuries are particularly connected to this condition. Undiagnosed whiplash has been found in the patient history of many CFS sufferers.

#3 Stress

When stress levels spike, it can have the same effect on a CFS patient as a day of strenuous activity. Since we cannot avoid all sources of stress, this makes it important for a chronic fatigue patient to have a good outlet for stress and to focus on positive ways to cope with stressful situations that come up.

#4 Illness

It is still a discussion among researchers as to whether chronic fatigue begins because of a compromised immune system or if the condition leads to reduced immune function. Either way, it’s a catch 22 for CFS patients. It can be easier to catch infections or viruses when you have the condition and take longer to get rid of them. These other health problems, in turn, can cause symptoms such as fatigue to flare.

#5 Allergies

While more research needs to be done regarding the connection between allergies and chronic fatigue symptoms, it seems that allergic reactions can result in worsening symptoms of CFS. This is especially true for those who are gluten sensitive since many of the symptoms overlap such as brain fog, joint pain, and fatigue.

#6 Lack of Sleep

While sleep itself does not help a CFS patient to recover from fatigue, sleeping less can result in even greater fatigue. Thus, it is important to set a regular sleep schedule and stick to it.

#7 Poor Nutrition

This is going to come up in regard to just about any chronic health problem. You need proper nutrition in order for your body to function optimally, and that is never more important than when you are already dealing with a condition that causes the body to stop functioning properly.

#8 Anemia

This is often connected with chronic fatigue syndrome, However, in many cases, it goes undiagnosed for a long time. It just makes sense for doctors to check for anemia when a patient is showing signs of CFS.

#9 Hormonal Imbalances

This may help to explain why the majority of CFS patients are female. As a result, when estrogen levels fluctuate (i.e., during pregnancy, menopause, or at certain times during one’s monthly cycle) symptoms may flare up.

#10 Medication Side Effects

There are tons of medications that can result in symptoms similar to chronic fatigue. Unfortunately, many patients dealing with CFS also struggle with depression and anxiety, and some of the prescription medications for conditions like those come along with side effects that contribute to fatigue.

#11 Emotional Trauma

This goes along with stress. Just like physical exertion and physical trauma can both lead to increased symptoms, emotional trauma can also make CFS worse. A sudden tragedy, financial reversal, breakup, or other emotional trauma can increase symptoms.

#12 Increased Toxicity

There are numerous sensory triggers that can result in a flare-up of symptoms, but these may also be related to increased toxicity in the body. For example, you may experience a flare-up after cleaning the home. It could be due to the exertion, but it also may be from the smell of the cleaner. Another possibility is that the cleaner contains toxins that resulted in the flare-up. It is best to stick to natural products when dealing with chronic health conditions (or even for those who don’t have chronic health issues).

Finding Relief from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Reading over this list, you may wonder if it is possible to get through a day in our modern world without encountering something that will make your symptoms worse. But the purpose of this article is not to spread doom and gloom but rather to bring hope to those who are suffering from CFS. Is there a way to find natural relief?

Many are benefiting from a niche in the chiropractic field called upper cervical chiropractic. What is this and how does it help with chronic fatigue syndrome?

Upper cervical chiropractic involves precise measurements of the top two vertebrae of the spine by using diagnostic imaging techniques. Then a gentle adjustment can be custom-fit to a patient’s needs. But what do these bones have to do with CFS?

The top bones of the spine can affect brainstem function as well as blood flow to the brain. These changes to both the central nervous and vascular systems can have far-reaching effects on the body. As a result, correcting this underlying problem has led to benefits for CFS patients as well as those with other chronic ailments like fibromyalgia.

To learn more, contact an upper cervical practitioner in your area to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

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