In the US, it was estimated that about 21.4 % of adults would experience a mood disorder in their life [1].

In the UK, it was estimated that 1 in 5 people are affected by mood disorders [2].

2- How Do You Know If You Have a Mood Disorder?

Symptoms depend on the type of the mood disorder and may include the following:

• Persistence state of sadness
• Feeling empty or worthless
• Difficulty focusing or too many thoughts
• Loss of interest in thinks you previously enjoyed doing
• Suicidal thoughts
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss or gain
• Fatigue or excessive energetic movements
• Sleep disorder or Insomnia
• Irritability
• Risk taking behavior

1- What Are the Causes of Mood Disorders?

• Family history

Higher rates of mood disorders were associated with a family history of affective disorders and instability [3].

• Life changing

Life-changing events such as death, trauma, or divorce can be triggers for depression and mood disorders.

• Physical illness

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Parkinson’s diseases, and cardiovascular diseases can result in depression and mood disorders in affected individuals.

•  Medications

Some medications can cause mood disorders such as antiepileptic drugs, interferon (IFN), corticosteroids, and digoxin [4][5].

• Substance Abuse

Alcohol, cocaine, opioids (e.g., heroin) can cause mood disorders [6].

• Brain structure and function

Using MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) technology, mood disorders have been associated with alterations in certain regions of the brain including the frontal lobe, the thalamus, the striatum, the parietal lobe, and the hippocampus that are involved in brain connections that control the frontal‐subcortical circuit, the suicide circuit, and the reward circuit [7].

• Previous Diagnosis with Mood Disorder

Some types of mood disorders can result in a progression into different types of mood disorders.

3- What Are the Types of Mood Disorders?

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or depression is a debilitating mental disorder characterized by a depressed mood (low mood), low self-esteem, and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.

Major depression can be due to genetic factors (family history) or health issues.

It was estimated that around 7.1% of US adults had a least one major depression in their life [8].

Major depression was more prevalent in women (8.7%) than men (5.3%).

• Bipolar Disorder (Manic Depression)

Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by mood swings between periods of depression (depressive episodes), and elevated mood that can be severe known as mania (manic episode), or less severe known as hypomania.

Sometimes both depressive and mania episodes happen at the same time.

Bipolar symptoms include symptoms associated with depressive and manic episodes:

Depressive Episodes Symptoms

These include a persistent state of sadness, low self-esteem, fatigue, loss of appetite, loss or gain of weight, lack of focus, feeling empty or worthless, guilt, sleep disorders, and suicidal thoughts [10].

Manic Episode Symptoms

These include irritability, mood swings between delirium and euphoria, impulsivity, excessive energetic movements, lack of restraining, fast thoughts, and risk-taking behavior.

Hypomanic Episode Symptoms

These symptoms are characterized by an unjustifiable elevation in mood, a lack of restraining, and a reduced need for sleep.

There are 2 types of bipolar disorder: a severe bipolar disorder known as bipolar I and a less severe one known as bipolar II.

It is estimated that 2.8% of US adults had bipolar disorder during their lifetime [10].

• Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia)

Cyclothymia is a mood disorder characterized by depressive episodes, elevated mood, and hypomania but without meeting the criteria of bipolar disorder [11].

Symptoms of cyclothymia include depressed mood, irritability, low self-esteem, helplessness, insomnia, fatigue, inability to feel pleasure (anhedonia), lack of motivation, headaches, and suicidal thoughts. 

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of seasonal depression characterized by major depressive episodes in the fall/winter and remissions in spring/summer.

The symptoms include persistent low mood, lack of interest, irritability, lack of energy, irritability, longer hours of sleep, withdrawal from social situations, and craving for carbohydrates.

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PDD)

This mood disorder occurs before menstruation with moderate to severe symptoms that include anxiety, depressed mood, irritability, low self-esteem, decreased interest in activities, difficulty focusing, hypersomnia or insomnia, and anger [12].

• Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

This mental disorder affects children and adolescents and manifests with persistent irritability, anger, and frequent temper outbursts [13].

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) 

Dysthymia is a mood disorder that has characteristics of moderate depression but that lasts for a longer period (more than two years).

The symptoms include fatigue, insomnia, hypersomnia, eating disorders, and low self-esteem.

It is estimated that 2.5% of US adults had dysthymia during their lifetime [14].

• Depression Induced by Substance Use or Medication

This type of mood disorder is associated with the induction of changes in certain parts of the brain and alterations in the activity of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, neuropeptide Y, and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF).

Symptoms include depressive mood, fatigue, irritability, low self-esteem, insomnia, psychomotor retardation, and suicidal thoughts which can progress to manic symptoms [15].

• Depression Related to Medical Illness

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Parkinson’s diseases, and cardiovascular diseases affect the individual purpose and meaning of life which can result in depression [16].

• Atypical Depression

Individuals that are affected by this type of depression have similar symptoms as dysthymia or major depression but have higher reactions to their environment such as positive events or rejection [17].

• Psychotic Major Depression (Psychotic Depression, Depressive Psychosis)

Psychotic Major Depression is characterized by a combination of symptoms of major depression, hallucinations, and dilutions [18].

• Melancholic Depression

This type of depression is mostly biologically caused and is characterized by depressed mood, low self-esteem, fatigue, anorexia, excessive guilt, slow movement, absence of reactions to the environment, and lack of motivation [19].

• Postpartum Depression (Postnatal Depression)

Postpartum Depression is a mood disorder that manifests after childbirth and is characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, sadness, fatigue, sleep disorder, irritability, and the tendency to often cry [20].

3- How Do You Deal with Mood Disorders?

Anti-depressants

For the treatment of depression selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are used.

Mood Stabilizers

These medications are used to modulate mood swings particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Antipsychotics

These medications are used for the treatment of manic or depressive and manic episodes.

Light Therapy

Light therapy is used for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

This involves counseling sessions and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Brain Stimulation Therapy

When treatments with medications are not successful for bipolar disorder patients, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be used, which consists in applying current impulses on the patient scalp or forehead to inhibit or activate the brain [21].

Other brain stimulation therapies are also used such as stimulation Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) uses electromagnetic pulses to stimulate specific nerve cells in the brain.

Conclusion

Mood disorders are very common and affect millions of people; however, only half of the people affected with mental diseases receive treatment. Therefore, it is essential to increase awareness, improve detection methods, and make treatment available to all affected individuals to prevent cases of extreme desperation associated with suicidal thoughts.

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Iron is the main component of hemoglobin which plays an essential role in oxygen transport by red blood cells, and therefore, the lack of a physiological amount of iron affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to tissue hypoxia (deprivation of oxygen supply) [2]. 

What Are the Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia in the Elderly?

Any disorder, condition, diet, or medication that limits the supply or absorption of iron will restrict the amount of hemoglobin available to transport oxygen; thus, leading to iron deficiency anemia.

1- Stomach ulcers

Stomach ulcers are associated with damages of the mucus layer that makes the lining of the stomach by the stomach own digestive acidic juices. The results of these damages are a reduction in iron absorption and gastrointestinal bleedings that lead to iron loss and reduction in the body’s iron reserves.

The damages are caused by the excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the bacterium Helicobacter Pylori.

Helicobacter Pylori lives in the mucus layer of the stomach where it secretes proteins, toxins, and an enzyme named urease. The proteins are responsible for the inflammation of the mucus layer, while urease transforms the stomach urea into ammonia that neutralizes the digestive acidic juices [3].

The effect of excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is reported below.

2- Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer or gastric carcinoma is cancer that develops from the lining of the stomach and which symptoms are associated with a loss of appetite, weight loss, heartburn, indigestion, abdominal pain, and blood loss through blood vomiting and blood in the stool.

It can be caused by Epstein-Barr virus infection, genetics, diet, and inflammation related to Helicobacter Pylori infection [4]. The loss of appetite and the bleeding result in significant losses in iron and iron reserves leading to iron loss and reduction in the body’s iron reserves.

3- Bowel Cancer (Colorectal Cancer)

This cancer develops in the colon or rectum and is associated with a loss of appetite, weight loss, constipation, nausea or vomiting, and rectal bleeding. While a small percentage is due to genetic factors, most bowel cancers are due to aging, and lifestyles [5].

Like stomach cancer, the loss of appetite and rectal bleeding result in significant losses in iron and iron reserves leading to iron loss and reduction in the body’s iron reserves.

4- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen (Advil®) perform their anti-inflammatory action by inhibiting the enzymes cyclooxygenase/prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase (PGHS-1 and PGHS-2), involved in the biosynthesis of the pro-inflammatory prostaglandin.

However, PGHS-1 is involved in the protection of the gastric mucosa and its excessive inhibition by NSAIDs results in a thinner mucus layer and stomach ulcer [6].

5- Diet

Although the impact of iron dietary deficiency is less frequent in western countries, the lack of iron supply through food consumption can significantly reduce the body’s iron reserves resulting in iron deficiency anemia; however, a diet rich in iron can reverse this disorder.

How Is Iron Deficiency Anemia diagnosed?

The symptoms depend on the speed of onset of anemia, its severity, and the characteristics of the patient, but they generally include the following symptoms [7]:

• Pale complexion
• General weakness and fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Difficulty swallowing
• Irritability
• Poor concentration
• Headache
• Intolerance to exercise. 

Although the symptoms would indicate a potential iron dietary deficiency, the diagnosis is confirmed by routine blood tests that measure the levels of serum iron, ferritin, and transferrin saturation levels [8].

How Is Iron Deficiency Anemia Treated?

The treatment of iron deficiency relies on iron supplements that can be obtained from rich-iron food such as dark-green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, meat, fish, tofu, eggs, brown rice, and dried fruit.

However, medications in a form of tablets or liquid preparations such as Ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate can also be recommended by the doctor. Supplementation with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) can enhance iron absorption.

A follow-up through measuring the hemoglobin concentration and red cell indices at intervals is also performed for monitoring to ensure recovery. In this case, the hemoglobin concentration should rise by 2 g/dl after 3–4 weeks [9].

Conclusion

Iron dietary deficiency anemia in elderly individuals can be associated with an iron unbalanced diet that is restored  by adequate supplementation with iron-rich food; however, in some cases, it is due to much complex disorders or diseases that require more specific treatments

References

[1] Anía, B.J., Suman, V.J., Fairbanks, V.F., Rademacher, D.M. and III, L.J.M., 1997. Incidence of anemia in older people: an epidemiologic study in a well defined population. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 45(7), pp.825-831.

[2] Chaudhry, H.S. and Kasarla, M.R., 2017. Microcytic hypochromic anemia.

[3] Blaser, M.J., 1996. The bacteria behind ulcers. Scientific American, 274(2), pp.104-107.

[4] Brenner, H., Rothenbacher, D. and Arndt, V., 2009. Epidemiology of stomach cancer. Cancer epidemiology, pp.467-477.

[5] Boyle, T., Keegel, T., Bull, F., Heyworth, J. and Fritschi, L., 2012. Physical activity and risks of proximal and distal colon cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the national cancer institute, 104(20), pp.1548-1561.

[6] Bindu, S., Mazumder, S. and Bandyopadhyay, U., 2020. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and organ damage: A current perspective. Biochemical pharmacology, p.114147.

[7] Bermejo, F. and García-López, S., 2009. A guide to diagnosis of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in digestive diseases. World journal of gastroenterology: WJG, 15(37), p.4638.

[8] Rimon, E., Levy, S., Sapir, A., Gelzer, G., Peled, R., Ergas, D. and Sthoeger, Z.M., 2002. Diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia in the elderly by transferrin receptor–ferritin index. Archives of internal medicine, 162(4), pp.445-449.[9] Goddard, A.F., McIntyre, A.S. and Scott, B.B., 2000. Guidelines for the management of iron deficiency anaemia. Gut, 46(suppl 4), pp.iv1-iv5.

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What Are the Causes of Dizziness?

The common causes of dizziness are labyrinthitis, stress and anxiety, headache and migraine, hypoglycemia, vertebrobasilar insufficiency, and dehydration. Less common causes are associated with excessive alcohol consumption (binge drinking), Illness, and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.

1- Labyrinthitis

Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear and specifically of the membranous labyrinth that leads to its irritation and swelling. This ear structure is made of a network of passages full of liquid which play an essential role in the control of sound detection and balance by the inner ear. Labyrinthitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection (e.g., cold or flu).

2- Stress and Anxiety

Dizziness has been associated with panic symptoms in stressed and anxious individuals due to central-neurologic links between the vestibular system which controls the sense of balance and spatial orientation and the autonomous nervous system controls the nervous system’s unconscious activity [2].

3- Migraine

Dizziness is one of the symptoms of vestibular migraine whose causes are unknown. However, one possible explanation is a potential link between pain and swelling during inner ear inflammation and migraine and dizziness.

4- Hypoglycaemia

To function the brain requires energy that is produced from glucose that is supplied by the blood. Normally, glucose is maintained in the range of 3.9 to 6.1 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) of blood; however, diabetes patients receiving a diabetic treatment can periodically experience hypoglycemia (Low glucose level) which causes dizziness, fatigue, and weakness.

5- Hypotension

The normal blood pressure in a healthy adult is between 90/60 and 120/80 mmHg. A blood pressure of less than 90/60 mmHg can lead to dizziness. This is commonly observed in individuals with diabetes or cardiovascular diseases.

6- Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency

Vertebrobasilar Insufficiency is transitory ischemia of the vertebrobasilar circulation associated with decreased blood flow in the posterior circulation of the brain that is provided by the basilar artery. Diseases such as atherosclerosis can block or narrow this artery causing a reduced blood supply to several parts of the brain leading to dizziness and imbalance [3].

7- Dehydration

Dehydration prevents a sufficient supply of water and electrolytes to the body resulting in blood dehydration and a decrease in blood flow leading to an insufficient supply of nutrients to tissues and organs, including the brain.

8- Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption leads to alcohol intoxication and alcoholic ketoacidosis reduces the secretion of insulin by the pancreas which affects glucose usage by the cells in tissue and organs of the body. Diabetes can also lead to ketoacidosis, known as diabetic ketoacidosis.

9- Medication

Discontinuation of antidepressant medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., Prozac) results in a high frequency of dizziness that may be due to their role in improving balance control and cognitive functioning [4]. Blood pressure medication can also induce hypotension leading to dizziness.

10- Illness

Disorders such as vestibular neuritis or diseases such as Ménière’s Disease comprise dizziness as one of the main symptoms.

• Vestibular neuritis

This disorder affects the vestibulocochlear nerve within the inner ear that sends balance and head position information from the inner ear to the brain. Damage to this nerve (e.g., viral infections) disturbs the function of the nerve which results in dizziness and unbalance [5].

• Ménière’s Disease

Although the causes are not well known, this disease affects the inner ear, and its symptoms include tinnitus (Perception of internal sounds), loss of hearing, and vertigo.

11- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The blood transport oxygen to tissues and organs of the body to produce the energy necessary for their functions. Following, carbon monoxide exposure, blood oxygen is replaced by carbon monoxide which results in cellular toxicity.

What Is the Difference Between Dizziness and Vertigo?

Although dizziness and vertigo have been interchangeably used, dizziness is a perception associated with feeling light-headed and unsteady, while vertigo is the perception of being in movement or that your surrounding is in movement. Vertigo is also characterized by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and walking difficulty.

How to Prevent or Treat Dizziness?

The prevention or treatment of dizziness is focused on dealing with its causes. For instance, labyrinthitis and Vestibular neuritis, are treated with antihistamines or motion-sickness tablets. Vestibular rehabilitation through physiotherapeutic exercises is also recommended to help restore balance. Changes in lifestyle, staying hydrated, avoiding binge drinking, and reducing stress levels can prevent dizziness.

Conclusion

Dizziness is not generally associated with a serious condition; however, in certain cases, it can be due to chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases which require specific treatments. It can also be related to mental disorders such as migraines, and anxiety, which also rely on anti-depressant treatments.

Unfortunately, the causes of Ménière’s disease are not well-known and the potential involvement of hereditary transmission has been proposed. In this case, the treatment relies on the use of medications that reduce nausea and diuretics to reduce liquid build-up in the inner ear.

Finally, dizziness is a symptom that is shared by several disorders such as vertigo, and therefore, it is confusing to differentiate between the two if the right questions are not asked during the diagnostic stage.

References

[1] Neuhauser, H.K., 2016. The epidemiology of dizziness and vertigo. Handbook of clinical neurology, 137, pp.67-82.

[2] Balaban, C.D. and Thayer, J.F., 2001. Neurological bases for balance–anxiety links. Journal of anxiety disorders, 15(1-2), pp.53-79.

[3] Lima, A.C., Bittar, R., Gattas, G.S., Bor-Seng-Shu, E., Oliveira, M.D.L., Monsanto, R.D.C. and Bittar, L.F., 2017. Pathophysiology and diagnosis of vertebrobasilar insufficiency: a review of the literature. International archives of otorhinolaryngology, 21, pp.302-307.

[4] Ramos, R.T., 2006. Antidepressants and dizziness. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 20(5), pp.708-713.

[5] Jeong, S.H., Kim, H.J. and Kim, J.S., 2013, July. Vestibular neuritis. In Seminars in neurology (Vol. 33, No. 03, pp. 185-194). Thieme Medical Publishers.

[6] Harcourt, J., Barraclough, K. and Bronstein, A.M., 2014. Meniere’s disease. Bmj, 349.

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1. Epidemiology of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Based on prevalence estimates from the Institute of Medicine, chronic fatigue syndrome affects around 0.2-2.6% of the global population. It mainly affects adults between 40 and 60 years, with a female predominance [1][2]. It also occurs in children and adolescents; however, it appears to be at a lower rate [3].

2. What Causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

There are several causes of chronic fatigue syndrome including genetic, neurological, immunological, infectious, sleep-related, and psychiatric [2].

A. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome a Genetic Condition?

Several studies investigated the association between chronic fatigue syndrome and family genetic history. One of the studies compared the rate of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) between 25 individuals with CFS and 36 control subjects and found significantly higher rates of CFS in individuals with CFS relatives [4].

By analyzing data from a chronic fatigue twin registry, other studies found higher rates of chronic fatigue syndrome in monozygotic (identical) compared to dizygotic twins and that a genetic predisposition to chronic fatigue syndrome exists in female twins [5].

However, further investigations are required to confirm the involvement of family genetic history in the etiology of CFS [2].

B. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome a Neurological Condition?

Due to the presence of symptoms of fatigue, impaired concentration diminished attention and memory, and headache in cases of CFS, neuropsychological and neuroendocrine studies, were performed by several research groups.

Neuropsychological studies

Although studies tested the capacity of information processing, working memory, and poor learning in CFS individuals, the results showed that these individuals have normal cognitive and global intellectual abilities [6].

Neuroendocrine studies

Abnormalities in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and serotonin pathways were reported in patients with CFS. These individuals had an altered physiological response to stress associated with reduced levels of cortisol, a disorder of central neurotransmitters, and disturbance of the functional relationship between cortisol and central neurotransmitters [7].

C. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome an Immunological Condition?

Analysis of the immune system in CFS individuals demonstrated the presence of alterations affecting the function of natural killer (NK) cells and regulatory T and B cells, and higher frequencies of various autoantibodies [8] [9]. However, other studies showed the absence of changes in lymphocyte subsets in CFS individuals [10].

D. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Due to Infections?

Although several studies reported potential associations between CSF and viral infections, such as Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), human herpesvirus (HHV) 6, HHV-7, HHV-8, human parvovirus B19 (B19V), enteroviruses, lentiviruses, the role of viral infections in CSF etiology have not been confirmed and remains inconclusive [11].

E. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Due to Sleep Disruption?

Although many studies suggested an association between CSF and sleep disturbances using sleep parameters such as slow-wave sleep, apnea-hypopnea index, spectral activity, and multiple sleep latency testing, a recent study showed that the reported results are inconsistent due to subjects’ recruitment decisions, confounding factors, small sample sizes and unconfirmed findings [12].

F. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome a Psychiatric Condition?

Several studies suggested that CSF is a psychiatric disorder that originates in CSF individuals who have mood disorders, such as anxiety, and major depression, and somatization disorder which includes symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, generalized pain, bowel movement, and fatigue [13] [14].

H. Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Due to Lack of Exercise?

A study showed that CSF individuals have less physical activity than non-CSF individuals, suggesting that the lack of physical activity could aggravate fatigue in CSF patients [15]. Interestingly, another study showed that individuals with CSF who received a graded exercise program had improvements in physical activities and in some cognitive variables [16].

3. How Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Diagnosed?

Unfortunately, there is no specific test for CSF, and the diagnosis is based on the observation of symptoms including sleep disturbances, headaches, joint, and muscle pain, disabling tiredness, flu-like symptoms, dizziness, and heart palpitations.

4. How Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Treated?

The treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome is symptomatic and involves the use of a graded exercise program to improve physical activity, medications to control sleeping disruptions and pain, and cognitive behavioral therapy to improve cognitive disorders, and behaviors, and to develop coping strategies.

5. Frequently Asked Questions about What Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)?

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), is a complex disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest and may worsen with physical or mental activity.

What are the symptoms of CFS?

The main symptom of CFS is severe fatigue that lasts for at least six months and is not alleviated by rest. Other common symptoms include muscle pain, joint pain, headaches, unrefreshing sleep, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating.

What causes Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

The exact cause of CFS is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of factors, including viral infections, immune system dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and genetic predisposition. Psychological factors such as stress may also play a role.

How is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome diagnosed?

There is no specific test for CFS, so diagnosis is based on ruling out other possible causes of the symptoms. Doctors may perform a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Is there a cure for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Currently, there is no cure for CFS. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include medications to relieve pain and improve sleep, as well as lifestyle changes such as pacing activities and managing stress.

Can exercise help with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

While exercise is important for overall health, it can be challenging for people with CFS due to their extreme fatigue and other symptoms.

A carefully tailored exercise program, such as graded exercise therapy, may be beneficial for some individuals, but it should be approached cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome a mental illness?

No, CFS is not a mental illness, although psychological factors such as stress may contribute to its development or exacerbation. CFS is recognized as a physical illness by major medical organizations, including the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Can children get Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

Yes, children and adolescents can develop Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. It may manifest differently in younger individuals compared to adults, with symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, school absences, and reduced participation in activities.

How common is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

CFS is estimated to affect between 0.1% and 0.4% of the population, though rates may vary depending on the criteria used for diagnosis and other factors. It can occur in people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities.

What should I do if I think I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

If you are experiencing persistent, unexplained fatigue along with other symptoms of CFS, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Conclusion

Although chronic fatigue syndrome appears to be associated with psychiatric and neurological disorders, other factors such as viral infections, immunity, and hereditary, may also be involved. A better understanding of the etiology of this syndrome using studies that comprise larger cohorts of CSF patients would certainly lead to the development of more efficient therapies that are specific to chronic fatigue syndrome.

References

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/me-cfs/healthcare-providers/presentation-clinical course/epidemiology.html

[2] Afari, N. and Buchwald, D., 2003. Chronic fatigue syndrome: a review. American Journal of Psychiatry, 160(2), pp.221-236.

[3] Lim, E.J., Ahn, Y.C., Jang, E.S., Lee, S.W., Lee, S.H. and Son, C.G., 2020. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). Journal of translational medicine, 18(1), pp.1-15.

[4] Walsh, C.M., Zainal, N.Z., Middleton, S.J. and Paykel, E.S., 2001. A family history study of chronic fatigue syndrome. Psychiatric genetics, 11(3), pp.123-128.

[5] Buchwald, D., Herrell, R., Ashton, S., Belcourt, M., Schmaling, K., Sullivan, P., Neale, M. and Goldberg, J., 2001. A twin study of chronic fatigue. Psychosomatic medicine, 63(6), pp.936-943.

[6] Tiersky, L.A., Johnson, S.K., Lange, G., Natelson, B.H. and Deluca, J., 1997. Neuropsychology of chronic fatigue syndrome: a critical review. Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology, 19(4), pp.560-586.

[7] Parker, A.J.R., Wessely, S. and Cleare, A.J., 2001. The neuroendocrinology of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. Psychological medicine, 31(8), pp.1331-1345.

[8] Barker, E., Fujimura, S.F., Fadem, M.B., Landay, A.L. and Levy, J.A., 1994. Immunologic abnormalities associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 18(Supplement_1), pp.S136-S141.

[9] Brenu, E.W., Huth, T.K., Hardcastle, S.L., Fuller, K., Kaur, M., Johnston, S., Ramos, S.B., Staines, D.R. and Marshall-Gradisnik, S.M., 2014. Role of adaptive and innate immune cells in chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis. International immunology, 26(4), pp.233-242.

[10] Mikecz, A.V., Konstantinov, K., Buchwald, D.S., Gerace, L. and Tan, E.M., 1997. High frequency of autoantibodies to insoluble cellular antigens in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome. Arthritis & Rheumatism: Official Journal of the American College of Rheumatology, 40(2), pp.295-305.

[11] Rasa, S., Nora-Krukle, Z., Henning, N., Eliassen, E., Shikova, E., Harrer, T., Scheibenbogen, C., Murovska, M. and Prusty, B.K., 2018. Chronic viral infections in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Journal of translational medicine, 16(1), pp.1-25.

[12] Maksoud, R., Eaton-Fitch, N., Matula, M., Cabanas, H., Staines, D. and Marshall-Gradisnik, S., 2021, May. Systematic Review of Sleep Characteristics in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. In Healthcare (Vol. 9, No. 5, p. 568). Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute.

[13] Stewart, D.E., 1990. Emotional disorders misdiagnosed as physical illness: Environmental hypersensitivity, candidiasis hypersensitivity, and chronic fatigue syndrome. International Journal of Mental Health, 19(3), pp.56-68.

[14] Shorter, E., 2008. From paralysis to fatigue: a history of psychosomatic illness in the modern era. Simon and Schuster.

[15] van der Werf, S.P., Prins, J.B., Vercoulen, J.H., van der Meer, J.W. and Bleijenberg, G., 2000. Identifying physical activity patterns in chronic fatigue syndrome using actigraphic assessment. Journal of psychosomatic research, 49(5), pp.373-379.

[16] Wallman, K.E., Morton, A.R., Goodman, C., Grove, R. and Guilfoyle, A.M., 2004. Randomised controlled trial of graded exercise in chronic fatigue syndrome. Medical Journal of Australia, 180(9), pp.444-448.

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