Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, by Jacob A. Teitelbaum, M.D.

Article by Arnie Gitomer

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia

by Jacob A. Teitelbaum, M.D.

The following article is reprinted from “Ask The Doctor,” a magazine available online at www.natmedonline.com. Reprinted, with permission, in the Autumn 2006 issue of The Willner Chemists Product Reference Catalog.

This is a fast paced world. We are all busy; living our full lives, burning the candle at both ends. We all get tired. We all get sick from time to time and maybe even depressed. But the illness called chronic fatigue syndrome is not like the normal ups and downs that we experience in everyday life. People with chronic fatigue syndrome feel overwhelming fatigue, and often pain as well. This is an illness that does not go away with a few good night’s sleep. It drags on and on and doesn’t resolve itself. It steals vigor and energy over months, and sometimes even years.

In this issue of Ask the Doctor, we will talk about powerful vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbs combined in scientifically validated formulas that people with chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia can use every day. These nutrients can help address some root problems of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia by restoring energy and health to sufferers.

Q. What is chronic fatigue syndrome?

A. Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) also known as chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS), or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).1,2 is a group of symptoms associated with unrelenting and debilitating fatigue.1,2 The profound weakness of CFS causes a persistent and substantial reduction in activity level. You feel too tired to do normal activities or are easily exhausted for no apparent reason.1,3

Beside extreme fatigue, symptoms of CFS include general pain, mental fogginess, flu-like symptoms, and gastrointestinal problems. A list of symptoms includes: 2-4

• Headache

• Frequent infections, such as sinus or respiratory infections, swollen glands, bladder infection or yeast infections

• Muscle and joint aches

• Inability to concentrate or “brain fog”

• Allergies to foods and medications

• Anxiety and depression

• Decreased sex drive

The number of symptoms and the severity of these symptoms can vary among people. The symptoms of CFS hang on or reoccur frequently for more than six months.3

Q. Are chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia considered to be the same illness?

A. Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a painful shortening of muscles throughout the body.5 FMS is basically a sleep disorder characterized by many tender knots in the muscles. These tender knots, called tender or trigger points, are a major cause<