Every person with chronic fatigue and/or fibromyalgia syndromes has a unique presentation of these conditions with various complications and sets of symptoms. There is no one treatment that can “cure” these syndromes or that is helpful to everyone however a combined approach of therapies and supplements can lead to an improved quality of life. I have listed below things that have been beneficial for myself and others.
1. Diet and Chemical Exposure
Impaired detoxification is common to chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia sufferers. Avoidance of stimulants, depressants, pharmaceutical drugs and toxic chemicals can make a big difference in feeling better. This includes alcohol, caffeine, sugar, pain relievers and additives in processed food. Unfortunately many physicians prescribe drugs for pain, depression and sleep, which become less effective with time and in the long run make a patient worse. Some CFS/FMS have a particular sensitivity to fluoride, which is discussed in the post "Fluoride Poisoning". Others are sensitive to environmental stresses such as living is close proximity to a cellular tower. The optimal diet is one that is high in protein and minimally processed: organic meats, fish, eggs and dairy products, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and fruit. It is also important to consume salt and to drink plenty of water.
2. Breathing
Breathing is the underlying force of life and many people with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia have impaired or restricted breathing contributing to poor health and pain. People with CFS/FMS are often unaware that they are surviving on less air, which does not show up in an oxygen saturation test because their bodies compensate for this with low blood pressure. This is a cause of neurally mediated hypotension, a blood pressure abnormality common in Chronic Fatigue patients. Oral Systemic Balance is a treatment developed by a TMJ dentist named Farrand Robson that employs oral appliances to help patients breathe better and restore balance to the nervous system. It has resulted in a significant improvement in my own health which I discuss extensively in my post “Oral Systemic Balance”. The treatment is time consuming and expensive however I believe that it addresses one of the key sources of stress on the Autonomic Nervous System for those suffering from Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia Syndromes.
Also check out the website www.breathing.com a site for holistic breathing development research, education and self-help programs developed by “The Optimal Breathing Coach” Mike White. I recommend ordering the Fundamentals of Breathing Development Video and Breathing Kit, which offers an effective program of breathing exercises.
3. Neurofeedback
Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia Syndromes are conditions of neurological exhaustion and physical stress that result in dysregulation of the Central Nervous System. Dr. Len Ochs, a pioneer in the biofeedback field developed a unique form of EEG feedback or neurofeedback called Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) that has helped many people with CFS/FMS. The system operates entirely different from traditional EEG or neurofeedback training. Treatment involves very short (a few seconds per session) of feeding back to the brain the dominant frequency it is producing at an offset. This results in the brain jumping out of its existing pattern and breaking up the dysfunction. The therapy works best for those who have resolved underlying physical stressors that led to their condition i.e. obstructive breathing and infections. For more information read the book "The Healing Power of Neurofeedback" by Stephen Larsen and go to ochslabs.com.
4. Thyroid Function
Most chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia patients suffer from symptoms of hypothyroidism, which include low body temperature (below 98 degrees), fatigue and constipation, even though their thyroid blood tests are normal and/or they are taking thyroid replacement. Dr. Denis Wilson discovered that this condition which is called “Wilson’s Thyroid Syndrome”, "Wilson's Low Body Temperature Syndrome" or “Wilson’s Syndrome” can be reversed by taking for a period of time the active thyroid hormone T3. Returning my body’s temperature and thyroid function to normal was one of the big breakthroughs of my healing and I think it may be an issue for many CFS/FMS patients. You can read more about this under the post “Thyroid Function” and go to: www.wilsonssyndrome.com
5. Glutathione
Glutathione is the master antioxidant found in every cell of the body. It is responsible for transporting proteins between cells, detoxifying chemicals and environmental pollutants, activating the immune system and regenerating a variety of other antioxidants. Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia patients have low levels of glutathione and this causes many of the symptoms associated with the disorder including brain fog and insomnia. Taking glutathione orally is ineffective however there are supplements that can increase the production of glutathione including vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid, milk thistle and N-acetyl cysteine. Dr. Robert Keller, a doctor who treated many chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia patients developed after 10 years of research a glutathione optimizer, which is a patented formula of supplements called MAXGXL. It is sold via network marketing and you can order it wholesale from my website: www.maxgxl.com/159731. A two-month trial is recommended and CFS/FMS patients should start slow with a small dose due to symptoms of detoxification. To learn more about my experience taking MAX GXL read my post "Detoxification".
To download interesting articles written by Rich Van Konynenburg, Ph.D.,an independent researcher about the role of glutathione depletion in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" go to: http://aboutmecfs.org/Trt/TrtGSHIntro.aspx.
6. Protein Deficiency
Fibromyalgia patients have chronically low levels of amino acids and are deficient in systemic protein, which provide the materials to maintain, protect and repair body functions. This is most likely due to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract that makes it difficult to completely digest protein, carbohydrates and fats. A chiropractor named Dr. Brice Vickery has studied this area extensively and developed a patented formula of amino acids called “Platinum Plus Essential Amino Acids” that is beneficial in addressing protein deficiency and improves many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. To learn more about this read my post “Protein Deficiency”. You can order the amino acids at: www.supernutrient.com
7. Adrenal Exhaustion
Adrenal exhaustion is common to all CFS/FMS due to the enormous stress of living with these conditions. Mainstream endocrinologists do not diagnose or treat adrenal fatigue because there is nothing fundamentally wrong with the adrenal glands i.e. cancer or autoimmune disease. Holistic and naturopathic physicians diagnose this condition through saliva tests and treat with small amount of hydrocortisol or adrenal cortical extracts for a few months to give the adrenal glands a chance to recover. I have benefited from this therapy for short periods of time and discuss it in my post “Adrenal Exhaustion”.
8. Infections & Complicating Conditions
CFS/FMS patients are prone to a variety of infections and conditions including yeast overgrowth or candida, intestinal parasites, heavy metal toxicity and mercury poisoning, viral and mycoplasma infections, and Lyme disease. This is due to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, stress, depletion of glutathione and lowered immunity. These conditions can be treated by a good holistic physicians using herbs, short term courses of antibiotics and probiotics. An interesting website that discusses research on chronic infections is www.immed.org.
9. Lymphatic Dysfunction
The lymphatic system is a specialized component of the circulatory system which functions to remove excess fluids from body tissues, absorb fatty acids and produce immune cells. CFS/FMS patients have a sluggish or restricted flow of lymph resulting in mild edema. Some people have experienced a decrease of symptoms by taking decongestants and expectorants such as guaifenesin. I personally use an electronic instrument called Lymph Star Pro that facilitates lymph drainage via emissions of specific light and sound frequencies. I think this is a preferable alternative to taking drugs and that it has been mildly beneficial. The device is manufactured by Arcturus Star Products www.arcturusstar.com.
10. Gastrointestinal Problems
Many CFS/FMS suffer from gastrointestinal problems including constipation, loose stools, bloating, and flatulence. There are multiple causes of these symptoms including intestinal parasites that can be treated with appropriate antibiotics, low production of stomach acid which can improve by taking hydrochloric acid capsules after meals and low production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas which can be treated by taking digestive enzymes. An excellent laboratory used primarily by naturopathic or holistic physicians for diagnosing these disorders is Diagnos-Techs, Inc in Tukwila, WA. Some have reported good results in resolving gastrointestional problems from taking the nutritional supplement Mila, a seed that is high in fiber, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. See www.lifemax.net. A good magnesium supplement that relieves constipation is "Homozon".
11. Physical Therapies
I have explored a variety of physical modalities extensively in my search for better health including many kinds of acupuncture, massage, Rolfing, cranial sacral work, Tragger, chiropractic, Reiki, etc. I have found two forms of physical therapy to be particularly beneficial: Feldenkrais and Bowen Work. Both these therapies are very gentle and noninvasive which is important for CFS/FMS patients who can overreact to more aggressive treatments. Feldenkrais addresses patterns of movement and posture that can cause pain. Its practitioners are well educated and can help individuals attain the most efficient and stress free way to move, stand and sit as well as an overall awareness of one’s body. Bowen Work stimulates healing through subtle moves that release tension in specific areas of the body and restore physical balance. Both therapies activate the sympathetic nervous system and are excellent adjuncts to healing.
Exercise is a tricky and sometimes impossible activity for persons with CFS/FMS depending on the severity of the condition. Overdoing it can result in a flare-up of symptoms and compound the exhaustive state. Mild exercise and movement such as walking, yoga and Tai Chi well within the limits of one's capacity for exertion however are beneficial.
12. Stress Management
The challenge of living with conditions that cause ongoing fatigue, pain and insomnia is huge. Persons with CFS/FMS are under incredible stress physically and therefore have a low tolerance for additional stress in their personal lives. They need to make good decisions whenever possible about relationships, work and lifestyle that put less stress on them. I have been very fortunate to have people in my life who are supportive and understanding, to not have to solely support myself financially and to have the resources to explore treatments. I have benefited from learning meditation and relaxation skills particularly a biofeedback “hand warming” skill where one learns to increase circulation by raising the external temperature of ones hands, practicing with a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer. This skill helped me get back to sleep when I woke up at night with night sweats. For more information on my experience with biofeedback read my post "Waiting For Sleep". I also have built into my schedule a “nap” after lunch that has been a lifesaver.
Every person with chronic fatigue and/or fibromyalgia syndromes has a unique presentation of these conditions with various complications and sets of symptoms. There is no one treatment that can “cure” these syndromes or that is helpful to everyone however a combined approach of therapies and supplements can lead to an improved quality of life. I have listed below things that have been beneficial for myself and others.
1. Diet and Chemical Exposure
Impaired detoxification is common to chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia sufferers. Avoidance of stimulants, depressants, pharmaceutical drugs and toxic chemicals can make a big difference in feeling better. This includes alcohol, caffeine, sugar, pain relievers and additives in processed food. Unfortunately many physicians prescribe drugs for pain, depression and sleep, which become less effective with time and in the long run make a patient worse. Some CFS/FMS have a particular sensitivity to fluoride, which is discussed in the post "Fluoride Poisoning". Others are sensitive to environmental stresses such as living is close proximity to a cellular tower. The optimal diet is one that is high in protein and minimally processed: organic meats, fish, eggs and dairy products, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and fruit. It is also important to consume salt and to drink plenty of water.
2. Breathing
Breathing is the underlying force of life and many people with chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia have impaired or restricted breathing contributing to poor health and pain. People with CFS/FMS are often unaware that they are surviving on less air, which does not show up in an oxygen saturation test because their bodies compensate for this with low blood pressure. This is a cause of neurally mediated hypotension, a blood pressure abnormality common in Chronic Fatigue patients. Oral Systemic Balance is a treatment developed by a TMJ dentist named Farrand Robson that employs oral appliances to help patients breathe better and restore balance to the nervous system. It has resulted in a significant improvement in my own health which I discuss extensively in my post “Oral Systemic Balance”. The treatment is time consuming and expensive however I believe that it addresses one of the key sources of stress on the Autonomic Nervous System for those suffering from Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia Syndromes.
Also check out the website www.breathing.com a site for holistic breathing development research, education and self-help programs developed by “The Optimal Breathing Coach” Mike White. I recommend ordering the Fundamentals of Breathing Development Video and Breathing Kit, which offers an effective program of breathing exercises.
3. Neurofeedback
Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia Syndromes are conditions of neurological exhaustion and physical stress that result in dysregulation of the Central Nervous System. Dr. Len Ochs, a pioneer in the biofeedback field developed a unique form of EEG feedback or neurofeedback called Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) that has helped many people with CFS/FMS. The system operates entirely different from traditional EEG or neurofeedback training. Treatment involves very short (a few seconds per session) of feeding back to the brain the dominant frequency it is producing at an offset. This results in the brain jumping out of its existing pattern and breaking up the dysfunction. The therapy works best for those who have resolved underlying physical stressors that led to their condition i.e. obstructive breathing and infections. For more information read the book "The Healing Power of Neurofeedback" by Stephen Larsen and go to ochslabs.com.
4. Thyroid Function
Most chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia patients suffer from symptoms of hypothyroidism, which include low body temperature (below 98 degrees), fatigue and constipation, even though their thyroid blood tests are normal and/or they are taking thyroid replacement. Dr. Denis Wilson discovered that this condition which is called “Wilson’s Thyroid Syndrome”, "Wilson's Low Body Temperature Syndrome" or “Wilson’s Syndrome” can be reversed by taking for a period of time the active thyroid hormone T3. Returning my body’s temperature and thyroid function to normal was one of the big breakthroughs of my healing and I think it may be an issue for many CFS/FMS patients. You can read more about this under the post “Thyroid Function” and go to: www.wilsonssyndrome.com
5. Glutathione
Glutathione is the master antioxidant found in every cell of the body. It is responsible for transporting proteins between cells, detoxifying chemicals and environmental pollutants, activating the immune system and regenerating a variety of other antioxidants. Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia patients have low levels of glutathione and this causes many of the symptoms associated with the disorder including brain fog and insomnia. Taking glutathione orally is ineffective however there are supplements that can increase the production of glutathione including vitamin C, alpha lipoic acid, milk thistle and N-acetyl cysteine. Dr. Robert Keller, a doctor who treated many chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia patients developed after 10 years of research a glutathione optimizer, which is a patented formula of supplements called MAXGXL. It is sold via network marketing and you can order it wholesale from my website: www.maxgxl.com/159731. A two-month trial is recommended and CFS/FMS patients should start slow with a small dose due to symptoms of detoxification. To learn more about my experience taking MAX GXL read my post "Detoxification".
To download interesting articles written by Rich Van Konynenburg, Ph.D.,an independent researcher about the role of glutathione depletion in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome" go to: http://aboutmecfs.org/Trt/TrtGSHIntro.aspx.
6. Protein Deficiency
Fibromyalgia patients have chronically low levels of amino acids and are deficient in systemic protein, which provide the materials to maintain, protect and repair body functions. This is most likely due to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract that makes it difficult to completely digest protein, carbohydrates and fats. A chiropractor named Dr. Brice Vickery has studied this area extensively and developed a patented formula of amino acids called “Platinum Plus Essential Amino Acids” that is beneficial in addressing protein deficiency and improves many of the symptoms of fibromyalgia. To learn more about this read my post “Protein Deficiency”. You can order the amino acids at: www.supernutrient.com
7. Adrenal Exhaustion
Adrenal exhaustion is common to all CFS/FMS due to the enormous stress of living with these conditions. Mainstream endocrinologists do not diagnose or treat adrenal fatigue because there is nothing fundamentally wrong with the adrenal glands i.e. cancer or autoimmune disease. Holistic and naturopathic physicians diagnose this condition through saliva tests and treat with small amount of hydrocortisol or adrenal cortical extracts for a few months to give the adrenal glands a chance to recover. I have benefited from this therapy for short periods of time and discuss it in my post “Adrenal Exhaustion”.
8. Infections & Complicating Conditions
CFS/FMS patients are prone to a variety of infections and conditions including yeast overgrowth or candida, intestinal parasites, heavy metal toxicity and mercury poisoning, viral and mycoplasma infections, and Lyme disease. This is due to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, stress, depletion of glutathione and lowered immunity. These conditions can be treated by a good holistic physicians using herbs, short term courses of antibiotics and probiotics. An interesting website that discusses research on chronic infections is www.immed.org.
9. Lymphatic Dysfunction
The lymphatic system is a specialized component of the circulatory system which functions to remove excess fluids from body tissues, absorb fatty acids and produce immune cells. CFS/FMS patients have a sluggish or restricted flow of lymph resulting in mild edema. Some people have experienced a decrease of symptoms by taking decongestants and expectorants such as guaifenesin. I personally use an electronic instrument called Lymph Star Pro that facilitates lymph drainage via emissions of specific light and sound frequencies. I think this is a preferable alternative to taking drugs and that it has been mildly beneficial. The device is manufactured by Arcturus Star Products www.arcturusstar.com.
10. Gastrointestinal Problems
Many CFS/FMS suffer from gastrointestinal problems including constipation, loose stools, bloating, and flatulence. There are multiple causes of these symptoms including intestinal parasites that can be treated with appropriate antibiotics, low production of stomach acid which can improve by taking hydrochloric acid capsules after meals and low production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas which can be treated by taking digestive enzymes. An excellent laboratory used primarily by naturopathic or holistic physicians for diagnosing these disorders is Diagnos-Techs, Inc in Tukwila, WA. Some have reported good results in resolving gastrointestional problems from taking the nutritional supplement Mila, a seed that is high in fiber, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. See www.lifemax.net. A good magnesium supplement that relieves constipation is "Homozon".
11. Physical Therapies
I have explored a variety of physical modalities extensively in my search for better health including many kinds of acupuncture, massage, Rolfing, cranial sacral work, Tragger, chiropractic, Reiki, etc. I have found two forms of physical therapy to be particularly beneficial: Feldenkrais and Bowen Work. Both these therapies are very gentle and noninvasive which is important for CFS/FMS patients who can overreact to more aggressive treatments. Feldenkrais addresses patterns of movement and posture that can cause pain. Its practitioners are well educated and can help individuals attain the most efficient and stress free way to move, stand and sit as well as an overall awareness of one’s body. Bowen Work stimulates healing through subtle moves that release tension in specific areas of the body and restore physical balance. Both therapies activate the sympathetic nervous system and are excellent adjuncts to healing.
Exercise is a tricky and sometimes impossible activity for persons with CFS/FMS depending on the severity of the condition. Overdoing it can result in a flare-up of symptoms and compound the exhaustive state. Mild exercise and movement such as walking, yoga and Tai Chi well within the limits of one's capacity for exertion however are beneficial.
12. Stress Management
The challenge of living with conditions that cause ongoing fatigue, pain and insomnia is huge. Persons with CFS/FMS are under incredible stress physically and therefore have a low tolerance for additional stress in their personal lives. They need to make good decisions whenever possible about relationships, work and lifestyle that put less stress on them. I have been very fortunate to have people in my life who are supportive and understanding, to not have to solely support myself financially and to have the resources to explore treatments. I have benefited from learning meditation and relaxation skills particularly a biofeedback “hand warming” skill where one learns to increase circulation by raising the external temperature of ones hands, practicing with a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer. This skill helped me get back to sleep when I woke up at night with night sweats. For more information on my experience with biofeedback read my post "Waiting For Sleep". I also have built into my schedule a “nap” after lunch that has been a lifesaver.