Chronic Fatigue – More Than Just Feeling Tired

Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by extreme tiredness and fatigue. Both physical and mental activity may cause the tiredness to worse. However, what sets this tiredness apart is that rest will not provide relief.

There are a number of theories that have been posited about the cause of chronic fatigue. Some of these theories include the idea that a viral infection may be at the source of the disease, or that psychological stress may be the underlying factor.

Some confuse chronic fatigue syndrome with fibromyalgia. Many of the symptoms are similar. Since there is no definitive test for either condition, one person may be diagnosed with chronic fatigue by one doctor but would be diagnosed with fibromyalgia by another.

What Is Chronic Fatigue?

To get a diagnosis, you will need to exhibit no fewer than four of the following symptoms over the course of half a year. Children and teens may receive a diagnosis after just 3 months.

Common Chronic Fatigue Symptoms

• Significantly reduced activity due to exhaustion
• Night sweats and chills
• Eye pain or visual impairments
• Waking up tired
• Myalgia
• Arthralgia
• Headaches worsening in intensity
• Poor concentration and/or memory
• Vertigo, disequilibrium, or dizziness
• Allergies
• IBS symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea
• Frequent sore throats
• Tender lymph nodes
• Brain Fog
• Mood swings, depression, anxiety, irritability, or panic attacks

Chronic fatigue is now associated with cortisol level changes. This hormone is vital to overall health and body functions. Low cortisol levels can be caused by a misalignment of the upper cervical spine (C1 and C2 vertebrae). Head and neck injuries can easily cause such a misalignment even if the accident wasn’t serious.

Because of this, it is important to see an upper cervical chiropractor to determine if your chronic fatigue may be the result of a misalignment. Dr. Geoff Besso of Stow, Ohio has been specially trained to diagnose and correct such misalignments of the upper neck.

About the Author

Dr. Geoff Besso, DC, DCCJP

Besso Clinic of Chiropractic

Dr. Geoff Besso graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Clemson University. Following his bachelor’s degree he enrolled at the prestigious Life University in Atlanta, Georgia. After a four year intensive program, he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 2002. He became an upper cervical chiropractor in Stow in 2005. Dr. Besso and his wife, Amy Besso, DC, opened their practice in Stow, Ohio, in 2005 and have been blessed to help thousands of patients with conditions ranging from Fibromyalgia to Migraine Headaches to Meniere’s Disease.